Hadith #9683

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The root of magnanimity is modesty and its fruit is chastity.

This enlightening saying highlights the importance of two virtues: modesty and chastity. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the word "modesty" or "hayaa" in Arabic. Modesty is a quality that encompasses humility, shyness, and a sense of shame in the face of wrongdoing. It is a virtue that restrains one from engaging in immoral or indecent behavior. The root of this virtue lies in recognizing and acknowledging one's limitations and weaknesses before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a reflection of one's awareness of the presence of the Divine and the desire to uphold His commandments.

The Quran emphasizes the significance of modesty in several verses. In Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (7:26)

O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best

This verse highlights the importance of modesty in our physical appearance and behavior. It reminds us to cover our bodies and adorn ourselves with righteousness, which includes modesty.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nur, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs both men and women to lower their gaze and guard their modesty. He says, (24:30-31)

Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do. And tell the believing women to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which [necessarily] appears thereof

These verses emphasize the importance of modesty in our interactions and the need to protect our chastity.

Now, let us explore the concept of "chastity" or "iffah" in Arabic. Chastity refers to purity, decency, and the preservation of one's honor and integrity. It is the result of practicing modesty and guarding oneself against immoral acts. Chastity encompasses not only physical purity but also purity of thoughts, intentions, and actions. It is a virtue that protects individuals from falling into sins and maintains their dignity.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of chastity. In Surah Al-Mu'minun, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the successful believers, saying, (23:5-7)

And who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed - But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors

These verses highlight the importance of preserving one's chastity within the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully captures the relationship between modesty and chastity. Modesty serves as the root or foundation of magnanimity or noble character. When one possesses modesty, it acts as a guiding principle that leads to the cultivation of other virtuous qualities. Modesty restrains one from engaging in immoral acts and encourages the pursuit of purity and righteousness.

Chastity, on the other hand, is the fruit or outcome of practicing modesty. When one is modest, they are more likely to uphold their chastity and protect themselves from sins and indecency. Chastity is a manifestation of one's commitment to modesty and serves as a shield against moral corruption.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of these virtues in our lives as Muslims. By cultivating modesty and guarding our chastity, we not only protect ourselves from sins but also uphold our dignity and honor as believers. Modesty and chastity are intertwined virtues that contribute to the development of a noble character and a strong moral compass.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these virtues in our lives and seek His pleasure through our actions. May He bless us with the strength to resist temptations and protect our modesty and chastity. Ameen.