Hadith #1108

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us against relying solely on hopes and wishes, as they are the wares of the unintelligent. To fully understand the depth and significance of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words in the Hadith.

The word (iyyaka) "إيّاكَ" translates to "be cautious" or "beware." It is a strong warning from Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) to Muslims, urging them to be mindful and vigilant. This emphasizes the importance of being aware of the potential dangers and pitfalls that can arise from relying solely on hopes.

The word (al-ittikala) "الإتِّكالَ" means "to depend" or "to rely." It refers to placing one's trust and reliance on something or someone. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is cautioning against relying solely on hopes and wishes as a means to achieve success or fulfillment.

The word (al-muna) "المُنى" translates to "hopes" or "wishes." It refers to the aspirations and desires that individuals have for a better future or a desired outcome. While hopes and wishes are natural and can serve as a source of motivation, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against depending solely on them.

To further understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Yunus, verse 107: (Quran 10:107)

And if Allah should touch you with adversity, there is no remover of it except Him. And if He touches you with good - then He is over all things competent.

This verse highlights the fact that it is Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) who has control over all matters, both good and bad. It is He who can bring about success or adversity in our lives. Relying solely on hopes and wishes without taking practical steps or seeking the help of Allah can lead to disappointment and failure.

Another verse that supports the wisdom of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement is found in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 24: (Quran 8:24)

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 emphasizes the importance of responding to the call of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ). It reminds us that true success and fulfillment can only be achieved by following the guidance of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ). Merely relying on hopes and wishes without aligning our actions with the teachings of Islam will not lead to true success in this life or the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warning against depending solely on hopes serves as a reminder for Muslims to take practical steps towards their goals while seeking the help and guidance of Allah. It encourages us to have a balanced approach, combining our hopes and aspirations with sincere efforts and reliance on Allah's mercy.

By cautioning against relying solely on hopes, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and seeking Allah's guidance in all aspects of our lives. It is through this balanced approach that we can attain true success and fulfillment, both in this world and the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the profound teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the ability to implement them in our lives. Ameen.