Hadith #11306

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ رَقى دَرَجاتِ الهِمَمِ عَظَّمَتْهُ الأُمَمُ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who rises to the [higher] levels of endeavour [and determination] is glorified [and considered as great] by the nations.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound Hadith in light of the Quran. The key words in this Hadith are (levels of endeavour) "دَرَجَاتِ الهِمَمِ" and (glorified) "عَظَّمَتْهُ".

The term "دَرَجَاتِ" refers to levels or stages, while "الهِمَمِ" signifies endeavour or determination. This implies that the Hadith is highlighting the importance of striving and exerting effort in order to reach higher levels of achievement and success. It emphasizes the significance of setting high goals and working diligently to attain them.

To further understand the concept of "دَرَجَاتِ الهِمَمِ," we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:1-2),

Certainly will the believers have succeeded: They who are during their prayer humbly submissive.

This verse highlights the importance of exerting effort and striving in our worship, particularly in our prayers. It reminds us that success is attained by those who are fully engaged and focused in their acts of worship.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's assistance and guidance in our endeavors. It reminds us that true success comes from relying on Allah and seeking His help in all our endeavors.

Now, let us explore the second part of the Hadith, which states, (is glorified by the nations) "عَظَّمَتْهُ الأُمَمُ". This phrase signifies that those who reach higher levels of determination and strive for excellence are not only respected and admired by their own communities but also by other nations.

To understand the concept of being glorified by nations, we can refer to the Quranic example of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). In Surah Yusuf (12:100), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And he raised his parents upon the throne, and they bowed to him in prostration. And he said, 'O my father, this is the explanation of my vision of before. My Lord has made it reality. And He was certainly good to me when He took me out of prison and brought you [here] from bedouin life after Satan had induced [estrangement] between me and my brothers. Indeed, my Lord is Subtle in what He wills. Indeed, it is He who is the Knowing, the Wise.'

This verse illustrates how Prophet Yusuf's determination, patience, and righteousness led to his rise in status and the admiration of not only his own family but also the people of Egypt. His unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to overcome challenges made him a respected and revered figure.

In light of this, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence in all aspects of life. It encourages Muslims to set high goals, work diligently, and remain steadfast in their determination. By doing so, they not only achieve personal growth and success but also become a source of inspiration and admiration for others, both within their own communities and beyond.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of striving for excellence and reaching higher levels of determination. It reminds us that success is attained through hard work, perseverance, and reliance on Allah. By embodying these qualities, we not only achieve personal growth but also become a source of inspiration and admiration for others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and determination to rise to the highest levels of endeavor and be a source of inspiration for the nations.