Hadith #10409

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of serving and protecting the soul. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the words used in this Hadith.

The word (khidmatu) "خِدْمَةُ" translates to "serving" or "taking care of." It implies a sense of responsibility and dedication towards the well-being of the soul. The soul is a precious entity, and it requires constant attention and nurturing.

The word (nafs) "نَفْسِ" refers to the soul or the self. It is the essence of our being, the core of our existence. The soul is the seat of our thoughts, desires, and emotions. It is the part of us that connects with the divine and seeks spiritual growth.

The word (siyanatuhā) "صيانَتُها" means "protecting" or "safeguarding." It implies the need to shield the soul from harmful influences and temptations. This protection involves guarding against unlawful pleasures and acquisitions that may lead to spiritual decline.

The word (lathat) "اللَّذّاتِ" refers to worldly pleasures and desires. These include material possessions, indulgence in physical desires, and seeking immediate gratification. The Hadith reminds us that excessive attachment to worldly pleasures can distract us from our spiritual journey and hinder our soul's growth.

The word (muqtanayat) "المُقْتَنَياتِ" refers to worldly acquisitions or possessions. It encompasses wealth, status, and material possessions that we accumulate in this world. While it is not inherently wrong to possess worldly goods, the Hadith cautions against becoming overly attached to them. Excessive attachment to material possessions can lead to arrogance, greed, and neglect of our spiritual obligations.

The word (riyadatuhā) "رِياضَتُها" means "training" or "cultivating." It implies the need to develop the soul through knowledge and wisdom. This training involves seeking beneficial knowledge, reflecting upon its teachings, and applying it in our daily lives. By nurturing our souls with knowledge and wisdom, we strengthen our connection with Allah and develop a deeper understanding of our purpose in this world.

The word (ulum) "العُلُومِ" refers to various branches of knowledge, including religious, scientific, and ethical knowledge. It encompasses both religious teachings and worldly knowledge that aligns with Islamic principles. The Hadith encourages us to seek knowledge in order to enlighten our souls and enhance our understanding of Allah's creation.

The word (hikmah) "الحِكَمِ" translates to "wisdom" or "prudence." It refers to the ability to apply knowledge in a balanced and insightful manner. Wisdom enables us to make sound decisions, navigate challenges, and live a righteous life. By cultivating wisdom, we develop a deeper understanding of the divine wisdom behind Allah's commandments and guidance.

The word (wajtihaduhā) "وَاجْتِهادُها" means "striving" or "exerting effort." It signifies the need for continuous effort and struggle in performing acts of worship and obedience. Striving in acts of worship and obedience involves fulfilling our religious obligations, engaging in voluntary acts of worship, and seeking nearness to Allah through righteous deeds. This exertion of effort is essential for the growth and purification of the soul.

The Hadith highlights that by serving the soul through protecting it from unlawful pleasures and acquisitions, training it with knowledge and wisdom, and making it strive in acts of worship and obedience, we can attain salvation for our souls. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran.

Allah says in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3):

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse emphasizes the importance of faith, righteous actions, and mutual encouragement towards truth and patience. By serving our souls and striving in acts of worship and obedience, we align ourselves with the path of righteousness and salvation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah says:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety).

This verse reminds us that the ultimate provision for our souls is piety and God-consciousness. By serving our souls and protecting them from harmful influences, we prioritize our spiritual well-being over worldly desires and acquisitions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to serve and protect our souls by safeguarding them from unlawful pleasures and acquisitions, training them with knowledge and wisdom, and making them strive in acts of worship and obedience. By doing so, we can attain salvation and spiritual growth. May Allah guide us all in serving and nurturing our souls, and may He grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.