Hadith #3981

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The most religious of all people is one whose religiosity is not corrupted by [lustful] desire.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and sincerity in one's religious devotion, by not allowing worldly desires to corrupt it.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (adīn) "أدْيَنُ" refers to the most religious or devout individuals. It signifies those who have a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strive to fulfill their religious obligations sincerely. The word (shahwah) "شَّهْوَةُ" refers to lustful desires or passions that can distract a person from their religious duties.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the dangers of following our desires blindly: (Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly desires and urges us to prioritize the provisions and blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that true religiosity lies in recognizing the transitory nature of worldly pleasures and focusing on the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-An'am, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us to seek His pleasure above all else: (Quran 6:162)

Say, 'Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of sincerity in our worship and the need to align our actions with the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone. It reminds us that true religiosity is not merely confined to rituals but encompasses all aspects of our lives, including our desires and intentions.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we understand that the most religious individuals are those who are able to control their desires and prevent them from corrupting their faith. They prioritize their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over worldly temptations, and their actions are driven by a sincere desire to please Him.

For example, a person who refrains from engaging in unlawful relationships or indulging in excessive materialistic pursuits out of fear of displeasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) demonstrates a strong level of religiosity. They are able to resist the allure of temporary pleasures and prioritize their eternal relationship with their Creator.

Conversely, those who allow their desires to overpower their faith may compromise their religious devotion. When worldly desires become the driving force behind their actions, they risk straying from the path of righteousness and losing sight of their ultimate purpose in life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true religiosity lies in maintaining purity and sincerity in our faith, by not allowing our lustful desires to corrupt it. By prioritizing our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over worldly temptations, we can strive to become among the most religious individuals. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to overcome our desires and remain steadfast in our devotion to Him.