Hadith #1218

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The best faith is [based on] complete certitude, and the greatest honour is [in] doing good deeds.

This beautiful saying highlights two fundamental aspects of faith: certitude and good deeds.

Let us first delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (faith) "إيمان" refers to a deep conviction and belief in the heart, accompanied by actions that manifest this belief. (complete certitude) "حُسْنُ الإيقانِ" signifies having unwavering faith and absolute conviction in the existence and oneness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the truth of His message. It is a state of firm belief that is not shaken by doubts or uncertainties.

The second part of the Hadith emphasizes the importance of good deeds. (doing good deeds) "بَذْلُ الإحسانِ" refers to acts of kindness, charity, and righteousness. It encompasses all actions that benefit others and bring about positive change in society. It is through these acts of goodness that one attains the greatest honor and distinction.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15),

Indeed, the believers are only the ones who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of certitude in faith. True believers are those who have complete trust in Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) and do not waver in their commitment to the path of righteousness. They dedicate their wealth and their lives to the cause of Allah, without any doubt or hesitation. This unwavering faith is the foundation of a strong and genuine relationship with Allah.

Furthermore, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes the significance of good deeds. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:277), Allah says,

Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds and establish prayer and give zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.

This verse highlights the inseparable connection between faith and good deeds. Belief alone is not sufficient; it must be accompanied by righteous actions, such as prayer, charity, and acts of kindness.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of both certitude and good deeds in their faith. Complete certitude strengthens our relationship with Allah and enables us to face the challenges of life with unwavering trust in His wisdom and guidance. It provides a solid foundation for our faith, protecting us from doubts and uncertainties.

Simultaneously, engaging in good deeds is a manifestation of our faith and a means of attaining honor and distinction in the sight of Allah. By performing acts of kindness and righteousness, we not only benefit others but also purify our souls and draw closer to our Creator. Good deeds are a reflection of our faith and a means of earning Allah's pleasure and reward.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true faith is not merely a matter of belief; it is a holistic concept that encompasses certitude and good deeds. It calls upon Muslims to strengthen their conviction in Allah and His message, while actively engaging in acts of kindness and righteousness. By embodying these principles, we can attain the best faith and the greatest honor in the sight of Allah. May Allah grant us the ability to have complete certitude and engage in abundant good deeds.