Hadith #10736

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights a profound aspect of human behavior and spirituality. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the worst kind of person - one who fears the people when it comes to fulfilling the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but does not fear Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) when it comes to the people.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some important words. The word (khashyah) "خَشْيَة" in Arabic refers to fear, awe, and reverence. It is a feeling of deep respect and humility towards someone or something. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) uses the term (khashyah) "خَشْيَة" to describe the attitude of an individual towards both Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the people.

The word (rabbih) "رَبِّهِ" in the Hadith refers to one's Lord, the Creator, and Sustainer of the universe. It signifies the ultimate authority and power of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over all creation. On the other hand, the word (annas) "النَّاسِ" refers to the people, the human beings who inhabit this world.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the worst kind of person who prioritizes the opinions and judgments of people over the commandments and will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Such an individual is more concerned about how they are perceived by others rather than their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They may compromise their faith, values, and principles to gain acceptance and approval from society.

This Hadith reminds us of the importance of having a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and prioritizing His pleasure above all else. It teaches us that true success lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and not in seeking the approval of people. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran:

(Quran 17:19)

And whoever desires the Hereafter and strives for it as he ought to strive and he is a believer - it is those whose striving shall be appreciated.

This verse emphasizes the importance of striving for the Hereafter and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our actions. It reminds us that our ultimate goal should be to attain the eternal rewards of the Hereafter, rather than seeking temporary validation and approval from people.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran:

(Quran 3:139)

So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers.

This verse encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith and not be influenced by the opinions and judgments of others. It reminds us that true superiority and strength lie in our unwavering belief in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and our commitment to following His guidance.

The consequences of fearing the people more than Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) are detrimental to both our spiritual and worldly lives. When we prioritize the opinions of people over the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we may engage in actions that are displeasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and go against our own values and principles. This can lead to a loss of self-respect, inner turmoil, and a weakened relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, when we constantly seek validation and approval from others, we become enslaved to their opinions and judgments. This can hinder our personal growth, prevent us from making independent decisions based on our own values, and lead to a life of conformity rather than authenticity.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to develop a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and prioritize His pleasure above all else. We should seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) to ensure that our actions align with the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By doing so, we can attain true success and inner peace in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the straight path and protect us from the pitfalls of seeking validation from others.