Hadith #7696

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The garment of action (or knowledge) immortalizes you and does not get worn out; it preserves you and does not perish.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the everlasting nature and significance of righteous actions or knowledge.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (thawb) "ثَوْبُ" refers to a garment or clothing. In this context, it symbolizes the actions or knowledge that one possesses. The term (al-'amal) "العَمَلِ" means action, while (al-'ilm) "العِلْمِ" means knowledge. Both action and knowledge are essential components of a believer's life, and they are intertwined in their effects and consequences.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran. In Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse emphasizes the everlasting nature of good deeds, which are superior to worldly possessions and relationships. It aligns with Imam Ali's statement that righteous actions or knowledge immortalize an individual.

Furthermore, in Surah Fatir (35:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Whoever desires honor [through power] - then to Allah belongs all honor. To Him ascends good speech, and righteous work raises it.

This verse highlights that righteous deeds elevate one's status and bring honor in the sight of Allah. It resonates with Imam Ali's statement that actions or knowledge preserve an individual and do not perish.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we can understand that the garment of action or knowledge has profound implications. Just as a garment protects and adorns the body, righteous actions and knowledge safeguard and enhance the spiritual well-being of a believer. They serve as a shield against the trials and tribulations of life, providing guidance and strength.

Moreover, the Hadith emphasizes the eternal impact of our actions and knowledge. While worldly possessions and achievements may fade away, righteous deeds and knowledge continue to benefit us even after our departure from this world. They become a source of ongoing reward and blessings, benefiting us in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's beautiful saying also serves as a motivation for Muslims to engage in continuous self-improvement and seek knowledge. By actively pursuing righteous actions and seeking knowledge, we ensure that our spiritual garment remains intact and everlastingly beneficial. This Hadith encourages us to prioritize actions and knowledge that align with the teachings of Islam, as they have the power to preserve and immortalize us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the everlasting nature and significance of righteous actions or knowledge. It highlights the protective and preservative qualities of these spiritual garments, which shield us from harm and ensure our eternal benefit. Let us strive to adorn ourselves with the garment of action or knowledge, seeking continuous improvement and righteousness, so that we may be immortalized and preserved in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).