Hadith #9315

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 righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of self-discipline and self-control in the pursuit of righteousness. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, teaches us that true wisdom lies in nurturing our virtues and suppressing our vices. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (kayyis) "كَيِّسُ" in Arabic refers to a person who possesses sagacity, intelligence, and wisdom. It is someone who possesses the ability to discern between right and wrong, and who has the strength to control their desires and whims. This word emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-reflection in the journey towards righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to (enliven our virtues) "أحْيا فَضائِلَهُ". This means that we should actively cultivate and strengthen our virtuous qualities. The Quran supports this notion in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety).

This verse encourages us to nourish our piety, which is one of the greatest virtues a Muslim can possess.

Furthermore, the Hadith instructs us to (kill off our vices) "أماتَ رَذائِلَهُ". This means that we should strive to eliminate our negative traits and habits. The Quran emphasizes the importance of purifying ourselves from vices in Surah Al-A'raf (7:33), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed - and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.'

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then provides us with the means to achieve this transformation by stating, (by subduing his lust and vain desires) "بِقَمْعِهِ شَهْوَتَهُ وَهَواهُ". This highlights the importance of self-control and discipline in our lives. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the need to control our desires and inclinations. In Surah Al-Naziat (79:40-41), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But as for he who feared the position of his Lord and prevented the soul from [unlawful] inclination, then indeed, Paradise will be [his] refuge.

By subduing our lusts and vain desires, we gain control over our nafs (self) and align ourselves with the teachings of Islam. This self-discipline allows us to make rational decisions based on the guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His Messenger (ﷺ). It enables us to resist temptations and avoid engaging in sinful actions.

The consequences of following Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice are profound. By enlivening our virtues and killing off our vices, we become individuals who are closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and who strive to embody the teachings of Islam. We become role models for others, inspiring them to follow the path of righteousness. Our actions become a reflection of our faith, and we become agents of positive change in society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of self-discipline and self-control in our journey towards righteousness. By enlivening our virtues and killing off our vices, we strive to align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to follow this advice and become individuals who are truly sagacious.