Hadith #1985

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he describes the characteristics of the hellfire. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith and explore its meanings in light of the Quran.

The first word to focus on is (ghamirun) "غَمِرٌ", which means "engulfed" or "submerged." This word emphasizes the intensity and all-encompassing nature of the fire in hell. It signifies that the fire of hell completely surrounds and engulfs its victims, leaving no escape or respite. This description aligns with the Quranic verse in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:24), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Then let mankind beware, lest they be struck by a trial or a painful punishment.

The next word is (muzlimatun) "مُظْلِمَةٌ", which means "pitch-dark" or "opaque." This word highlights the utter darkness that envelops the hellfire. It symbolizes the absence of any light or hope, intensifying the despair and torment experienced by its inhabitants. This concept is echoed in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:257), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah is the ally of those who believe. He brings them out from darknesses into the light.

The third word is (hamiyatun) "حَامِيَةٌ", which means "scorching hot" or "burning." This word conveys the extreme heat and intensity of the fire in hell. It signifies the excruciating pain and suffering that its inhabitants endure. This notion is reflected in the Quran in Surah Al-Hajj (22:19), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, those who disbelieve and avert [people] from the way of Allah and [from] al-Masjid al-Haram, which We made for the people - equal are the resident therein and one from outside; and [also] whoever intends [a deed] therein of deviation [in religion] or wrongdoing - We will make him taste of a painful punishment.

The final word is (fathi'atun) "فَظيعَةٌ", which means "horrid" or "terrible." This word encompasses the overall dreadful and terrifying nature of the hellfire. It signifies the horror and dread that its inhabitants experience, as they face the consequences of their actions. This concept is emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Ma'arij (70:27-30), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the punishment of the disbelievers, saying,

Indeed, the punishment of your Lord is severe. Indeed, it is He who initiates and repeats. And it is He who is the Forgiving, the Affectionate.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) description of the hellfire serves as a stark reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and strive to avoid the path that leads to such a dreadful destination. It motivates us to seek Allah's mercy and forgiveness, and to adhere to the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt.

The consequences of disregarding the warnings and falling into the traps of sin are severe. The fire of hell is a punishment that is engulfing, pitch-dark, scorching hot, and utterly horrid. It is a place of eternal torment and regret. Therefore, it is imperative for Muslims to constantly seek Allah's guidance, repent for their sins, and strive to lead a righteous life.

Reflecting upon Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) description of the hellfire should instill in us a sense of urgency to rectify our actions and seek Allah's forgiveness. It should serve as a reminder of the consequences of our choices and the importance of striving for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the torment of the hellfire and guide us on the straight path.