Hadith #8012

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "العَيْنُ بَريدُ القَلْبِ" which translates to

The eye is the emissary of the heart.

This impactful saying highlights the deep connection between the eyes and the heart, shedding light on the significance of our visual perception and its impact on our inner being.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. "Al-'ayn" refers to the eye, which is not only a physical organ but also a metaphor for perception and observation. "Barid" means emissary or messenger, indicating that the eye serves as a means of communication between the external world and the heart. And "al-qalb" refers to the heart, which in Islamic terminology encompasses the spiritual center of a person, including their thoughts, intentions, and emotions.

To understand the deeper implications of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:46),

Have they not traveled through the land, and have they hearts wherewith to understand and ears wherewith to hear? Verily, it is not the eyes that grow blind, but it is the hearts which are in the breasts that grow blind.

This verse emphasizes the importance of perceiving the world not just with our physical eyes, but with the understanding and insight of our hearts. It reminds us that true blindness lies in the heart, not in the eyes. Our eyes may see the external reality, but it is our hearts that truly comprehend and interpret what we see.

Another verse that complements the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hajj (22:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We have certainly created man and We know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein.

This verse highlights the intimate connection between Allah and the human heart. Allah is aware of the innermost thoughts and desires that arise within the heart. Therefore, the eye, as the emissary of the heart, plays a crucial role in conveying the messages of the heart to Allah.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we realize that the eye is not merely a passive receptor of visual stimuli. It is an active participant in shaping our perception of the world and influencing our spiritual state. The eye can be a window to the soul, revealing our intentions, desires, and spiritual well-being.

For example, when we gaze upon something forbidden, our eyes become the gateway for sinful thoughts and desires to enter our hearts. Conversely, when we direct our gaze towards what is pleasing to Allah, such as the beauty of nature or acts of worship, our eyes become a means of nourishing our hearts with piety and spiritual enlightenment.

The consequences of neglecting the guidance of this Hadith are significant. If we allow our eyes to wander aimlessly, indulging in inappropriate sights and distractions, our hearts will become polluted and distant from Allah. This can lead to a weakened connection with our Creator, a loss of spiritual vitality, and an increase in sinful behavior.

On the other hand, if we guard our eyes and use them wisely, seeking to behold what is pleasing to Allah, we can strengthen our relationship with Him. By consciously choosing to focus on what is beneficial, uplifting, and in accordance with the teachings of Islam, we can purify our hearts and elevate our spiritual state.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the eye is not merely a physical organ but a powerful tool that connects the external world to our inner being. It reminds us to be mindful of what we choose to see and how it impacts our hearts. By aligning our vision with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we can ensure that our eyes serve as emissaries of our hearts, leading us closer to Allah and enhancing our spiritual growth as Muslims. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to guard our eyes and purify our hearts.