Hadith #10297

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,

إنِ اسْتَطَعْتَ أنْ لا يَكُونَ بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَ اللّهِ ذُو نِعْمَة فَافْعَلْ۔

This Hadith encourages us to strive towards a direct and unmediated relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It urges us to eliminate any intermediary between ourselves and Allah, if possible.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (if) "إنِ" signifies a conditional statement, indicating that the action mentioned in the Hadith is recommended but not obligatory. The word (you are able) "استطعت" emphasizes the importance of personal capability and individual effort. It acknowledges that each person's circumstances may vary, and the ability to establish a direct connection with Allah may differ from one person to another.

The phrase (there is no benefactor between you and Allah)

لا يَكُونَ بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَ اللّهِ ذُو نِعْمَة

refers to the idea of removing any intermediary or intercessor between oneself and Allah. It highlights the significance of establishing a direct relationship with the Almighty, without relying on any other being or entity to seek His blessings and favors.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Fatiha (1:4),

You alone we worship, and You alone we ask for help.

This verse emphasizes the concept of Tawhid (monotheism) and the direct worship of Allah without any intermediaries. It reminds us that our ultimate goal should be to establish a personal connection with Allah, seeking His guidance, mercy, and blessings directly.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Az-Zumar (39:3), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Is it not to Allah that sincere devotion is due?

This verse emphasizes the importance of sincerity and devotion solely towards Allah. It encourages us to direct our worship and supplications exclusively to Him, without involving any intermediaries.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we can understand the enlightening message it conveys. It encourages us to strive for a direct and unmediated relationship with Allah, seeking His blessings and guidance without relying on any other being or entity. By doing so, we can cultivate a deep sense of sincerity, devotion, and reliance on Allah alone.

Establishing a direct connection with Allah has numerous benefits. It allows us to develop a stronger sense of faith and reliance on Him, as we recognize that He is the ultimate source of all blessings and favors. It also helps us to avoid any potential distractions or deviations that may arise from relying on intermediaries. By eliminating any barriers between ourselves and Allah, we can experience a profound spiritual connection and a sense of closeness to our Creator.

Furthermore, striving for a direct relationship with Allah fosters personal responsibility and accountability. It encourages us to take ownership of our actions and seek forgiveness directly from Allah for our shortcomings. It reminds us that we are individually responsible for our faith and actions, and that our ultimate success lies in our connection with Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to strive for a direct and unmediated relationship with Allah. It encourages us to eliminate any intermediary between ourselves and Allah, if possible. This Hadith aligns with the Quranic teachings of Tawhid and emphasizes the importance of sincerity, devotion, and reliance on Allah alone. By establishing a direct connection with Allah, we can experience a deeper sense of faith, personal responsibility, and closeness to our Creator. May Allah guide us all to seek His pleasure and establish a direct relationship with Him.