Hadith #6018

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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, "بِالطّاعَةِ يَكُونُ الإقْبالُ۔" which translates to

Through obedience one draws nearer [to Allah].

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ta'ah) "طاعة" refers to obedience, submission, and compliance. It encompasses following the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His Messenger (ﷺ), as well as adhering to the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The word (iqbal) "إقبال" means to draw nearer, approach, or come closer to something or someone.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:208)

O you who have believed, enter into peace completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of complete obedience to Allah, as it leads to peace and protection from the whisperings of Satan. By following the path of obedience, Muslims can draw nearer to Allah and distance themselves from the temptations of the enemy.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 3:132)

And obey Allah and the Messenger that you may obtain mercy.

This verse highlights the link between obedience and attaining Allah's mercy. Through obedience, Muslims can earn the mercy and blessings of Allah, which in turn brings them closer to Him.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. Obedience to Allah is not merely a ritualistic act, but a means to establish a deep connection with our Creator. It is through obedience that we can attain spiritual growth, strengthen our faith, and draw nearer to Allah's divine presence.

When we obey Allah's commandments, we align our actions with His will and seek to please Him. This obedience is not limited to the performance of religious rituals, but extends to all aspects of our lives. It encompasses acts of kindness, honesty, justice, and compassion towards others. By living a life of obedience, we become a reflection of the divine attributes and values that Allah has prescribed for us.

The consequences of obedience are manifold. Firstly, it brings us closer to Allah's love and mercy. As we strive to fulfill His commandments, we cultivate a deep sense of reverence and awe for Him. This love and mercy envelops us, guiding us through life's challenges and granting us tranquility and contentment.

Secondly, obedience leads to the purification of the soul. By adhering to the teachings of Islam, we purify our intentions, thoughts, and actions. This purification enables us to overcome our base desires and elevate our spiritual state. It allows us to develop qualities such as patience, humility, and gratitude, which are essential for our personal growth and development.

Moreover, obedience has a transformative effect on society. When individuals collectively embrace obedience, it fosters harmony, justice, and social cohesion. It inspires Muslims to work towards the betterment of their communities, to stand up against oppression, and to promote the values of compassion and equality.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound significance of obedience in our lives as Muslims. Through obedience, we draw nearer to Allah, attain His mercy, and experience spiritual growth. It is a means to establish a deep connection with our Creator, purify our souls, and contribute positively to society. May Allah guide us all on the path of obedience and grant us the strength to follow His commandments.