Hadith #5990

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

دَرَكُ الخَيْراتِ بِلُزُومِ الطَّاعاتِ

which translates to

Achievement of goodness is through maintaining obedience.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of adhering to the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and following the path of righteousness.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (daraka) "دَرَكُ" means to reach or attain something. Here, it signifies the attainment of goodness and blessings from Allah. The word (al-khayrat) "الخَيْراتِ" refers to all forms of goodness, whether they are spiritual, moral, or material. It encompasses acts of worship, good deeds, and righteous actions.

The phrase (biluzoomi at-taa'at) "بِلُزُومِ الطَّاعاتِ" can be understood as "through maintaining obedience." (biluzoomi) "بِلُزُومِ" denotes the act of adhering to something firmly and consistently. In this context, it refers to the unwavering commitment to obedience to Allah's commands. (at-taa'at) "الطَّاعاتِ" refers to acts of obedience, encompassing all forms of worship and righteous deeds.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83: (Quran 2:83)

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the importance of obedience to Allah's commands and the performance of good deeds. It emphasizes the significance of worship, maintaining good relations with family and society, and fulfilling the rights of others. By adhering to these obligations, one can attain the goodness and blessings promised by Allah.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 77: (Quran 22:77)

O you who have believed, bow and prostrate and worship your Lord and do good - that you may succeed.

This verse emphasizes the connection between worship and the attainment of success. It encourages believers to engage in acts of worship, such as bowing, prostrating, and fulfilling their obligations to Allah. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds, as they are intertwined with worship and lead to success in both this world and the Hereafter.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we can understand that the achievement of goodness is not merely a result of sporadic acts of obedience, but rather a continuous commitment to righteousness. It requires steadfastness in performing acts of worship, fulfilling our obligations, and treating others with kindness and compassion.

Maintaining obedience to Allah's commands is not always easy, as it requires discipline, self-control, and perseverance. However, the rewards and blessings promised by Allah far outweigh any temporary difficulties or sacrifices we may face. By consistently striving to obey Allah and perform good deeds, we can attain the goodness and blessings that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) speaks of in this Hadith.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of maintaining obedience to Allah's commands in order to achieve goodness and blessings. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that support this message, we understand that consistent adherence to acts of worship and righteousness leads to success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all to be steadfast in our obedience and grant us the ability to attain the goodness and blessings He has promised.