Hadith #5373

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "أذَلُّ النّاسِ المُرْتابُ۔" This can be translated into English as,

The most abased of people is the sceptic.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (adhillu) "أذَلُّ" in Arabic means to be humiliated, degraded, or brought low. It refers to a state of disgrace and loss of honor. The word (annas) "النّاسِ" means people, encompassing all individuals. Finally, the word (almurtabu) "المُرْتابُ" refers to the sceptic, someone who doubts or questions matters of faith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 highlights the importance of unwavering faith and trust in Allah and His Messenger. The believers are those who firmly believe without any doubt or skepticism. They dedicate their wealth and lives in the path of Allah, demonstrating their commitment and sincerity. They are the ones who are considered truthful in their faith.

In another verse, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:118), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And those who have no knowledge say, 'Why does Allah not speak to us or there come to us a sign?' Thus spoke those before them like their words. Their hearts resemble each other. We have shown clearly the signs to a people who are certain.

This verse highlights the danger of ignorance and baseless skepticism. Those who lack knowledge and understanding often question the signs of Allah and demand further proof. However, Allah has already provided clear signs and guidance to those who are certain in their faith. The hearts of the skeptics are likened to those who came before them, who also rejected the signs of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the essence of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The most abased and humiliated individuals are those who doubt and question matters of faith. When one allows skepticism to take hold, they open themselves up to the loss of honor and dignity. Doubt can lead to a weakening of faith, causing one to stray from the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the dangers of skepticism. He emphasizes the importance of having firm faith and trust in Allah and His Messenger. By doing so, we strengthen our connection with our Creator and protect ourselves from the humiliation and disgrace that comes with doubt.

It is crucial for Muslims to seek knowledge, deepen their understanding of Islam, and strengthen their faith. By doing so, we can shield ourselves from the doubts and skepticism that can lead to our spiritual downfall. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to remain steadfast in our faith and protect us from the abasement of doubt.