Hadith #4610

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

There is no asceticism like refraining from that which is forbidden.

This thought-provoking saying highlights the importance of abstaining from what is prohibited in Islam. To fully understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word "zuhd" in Arabic refers to asceticism or detachment from worldly desires. It entails not being attached to material possessions and focusing on the spiritual aspects of life. It is a state of contentment and detachment from the material world. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that true asceticism lies in refraining from that which is forbidden, indicating that the highest form of detachment is to abstain from engaging in sinful acts.

The word "kaff" means to refrain or abstain from something. In this context, it refers to abstaining from engaging in actions that are prohibited in Islam. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of avoiding what is forbidden, as it is a form of asceticism that brings one closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the importance of refraining from the forbidden, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:7),

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse emphasizes the importance of adhering to the prohibitions set by the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ). It is a reminder to Muslims to abstain from what is forbidden and to fear Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in doing so. By refraining from the forbidden, we demonstrate our obedience to Allah and our commitment to following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:168), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse highlights the importance of consuming only what is lawful and permissible. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to refrain from consuming anything that is forbidden, as it is a path that leads to the influence of Satan.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the significance of abstaining from what is forbidden. It is a call to prioritize our spiritual well-being and to distance ourselves from sinful acts. By refraining from the forbidden, we strengthen our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strive towards a state of true asceticism.

The consequences of refraining from the forbidden are profound. It leads to a purer heart, a stronger faith, and a closer relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It allows us to focus on the spiritual aspects of life and detach ourselves from the distractions of the material world. By adhering to the prohibitions set by Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), we pave the way for a righteous and fulfilling life.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of self-discipline and self-control. It encourages us to constantly evaluate our actions and ensure that we are not engaging in anything that is forbidden. It serves as a reminder that true asceticism lies in refraining from the sinful and prohibited acts, and by doing so, we strive towards a state of spiritual purity and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of refraining from what is forbidden in Islam. It highlights the importance of true asceticism and detachment from sinful acts. By adhering to the prohibitions set by Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), we strengthen our faith, purify our hearts, and strive towards a state of spiritual excellence. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to abstain from the forbidden and grant us the strength to live a life of righteousness.