Hadith #6843

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,

مَنِ اعْتَصَمَ بِاللّهِ نَجّاهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever seeks protection from Allah, He saves him.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (i'tasama) "اعْتَصَمَ" in Arabic refers to seeking refuge, holding firmly, or clinging to something for protection. It implies seeking shelter and safety in the Divine presence of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is an act of complete reliance and trust in Allah's power and mercy.

The concept of seeking refuge in Allah is beautifully emphasized in the Quran. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:24), Allah says,

O you who have believed, respond to Allah and to the Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life. And know that Allah intervenes between a man and his heart and that to Him you will be gathered.

This verse highlights the importance of responding to the call of Allah and His Messenger, as it is through this obedience and submission that one finds true life and protection.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:97-98), Allah says,

And say, 'My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the incitements of the devils. And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they be present with me.'

These verses demonstrate the act of seeking refuge in Allah from the whispers and temptations of Satan. It is a recognition of our vulnerability and a plea for Allah's protection from the evil influences that may lead us astray.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the immense power and mercy of Allah. When a person seeks refuge in Allah and places their trust in Him, Allah, in His infinite wisdom and compassion, saves them from harm and guides them towards the path of righteousness. This seeking of protection is not limited to physical dangers but encompasses all aspects of life, including spiritual, emotional, and intellectual challenges.

For example, when faced with a difficult decision or a challenging situation, a Muslim who seeks refuge in Allah will find solace and guidance through sincere supplication and reliance on Him. By turning to Allah and seeking His protection, one is granted the strength and wisdom to overcome obstacles and make choices that align with the teachings of Islam.

Moreover, seeking refuge in Allah also entails seeking protection from the consequences of our own sins and shortcomings. It is a recognition of our inherent weaknesses and a plea for Allah's forgiveness and mercy. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:23), Allah says,

They said, 'Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if You do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will surely be among the losers.'

This verse exemplifies the humility and repentance that accompanies seeking refuge in Allah, as we acknowledge our faults and implore His forgiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking refuge in Allah. By placing our trust in Him and seeking His protection, we are granted divine guidance, strength, and mercy. It is a reminder that true salvation lies in turning to Allah in times of need and relying on His infinite power and mercy. May Allah grant us the ability to seek His protection and may He save us from all harm and guide us on the straight path.