Hadith #5962

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ عَدَلَ عَنْ واضِحِ المَحَجَّةِ، غَرِقَ فِي اللُّجَّةِ۔

This Hadith is a impactful Hadith that carries a deep meaning. Let us delve into the important words and concepts present in this Hadith.

The word (adala) "عَدَلَ" means to deviate or turn away from the right path. It refers to straying from the straight path of guidance and righteousness. The word (wadhah) "واضِحِ" means clear or manifest. It signifies a path that is clearly visible and easily discernible. The word (mahajjah) "مَحَجَّةِ" refers to a highway or a well-defined path. It represents the path of truth and righteousness that is illuminated by divine guidance.

The word (ghariqa) "غَرِقَ" means to drown or sink. It symbolizes the consequences of deviating from the clear path of guidance. The word (lujjah) "لُّجَّةِ" refers to the depths of the sea. It represents the darkness, confusion, and chaos that one encounters when they stray from the path of truth.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 256:

There is no compulsion in religion. The right direction is henceforth distinct from error.

This verse emphasizes the clarity and distinction between the right path and deviation. It highlights that the path of truth is clear and evident, while deviation leads to confusion and error.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am, verse 153, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And this is My path, which is straight, so follow it; and do not follow [other] ways, for you will be separated from His way.

This verse emphasizes the importance of adhering to the straight path and warns against following other ways that lead to separation from the path of Allah.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims to stay steadfast on the clear path of guidance and righteousness. It warns against deviating from this path, as it leads to drowning in the depths of confusion and chaos. When one strays from the path of truth, they become susceptible to the temptations and falsehoods of the world, losing their way and losing sight of the ultimate goal of attaining closeness to Allah.

Deviation from the clear path can have severe consequences in both this world and the hereafter. In this world, it can lead to moral corruption, injustice, and a loss of purpose. In the hereafter, it can result in eternal separation from the mercy and blessings of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of staying on the right path. He encourages Muslims to seek knowledge, understand the teachings of the Quran, and follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny. By doing so, we can navigate through the challenges of life and avoid the pitfalls of deviation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to remain steadfast on the clear path of guidance and righteousness. It warns against the consequences of deviating from this path and emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding the teachings of the Quran. May Allah guide us all to the straight path and protect us from straying into the depths of confusion and chaos.