Hadith #10870

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "أمْلَكُ شَيْء اَلوَرَعُ۔" This can be translated as,

The most authoritative thing is piety.

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

The word (amliku) "أمْلَكُ" in this Hadith means "the most authoritative" or "the most powerful." It signifies the highest level of control, influence, and dominance. It implies that there is nothing more influential and powerful than the quality being described. In this case, the quality being referred to is (al-wara') "الوَرَعُ", which means "piety" or "fear of Allah."

The importance of piety is emphasized throughout the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse clearly states that the most noble and authoritative individuals in the sight of Allah are those who possess righteousness and piety. It highlights the significance of piety as a criterion for superiority and leadership in the eyes of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is piety. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes that the best provision for any journey or endeavor is not material possessions, but rather piety. It reminds Muslims that true success lies in cultivating a deep sense of God-consciousness and fear of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith further reinforces the Quranic teachings on the significance of piety. It highlights that piety is the most authoritative and powerful quality one can possess. It surpasses any worldly authority, wealth, or influence.

Piety acts as a guiding force in an individual's life, motivating them to make righteous choices and avoid sinful actions. It serves as a shield against evil temptations and keeps one on the straight path. Piety also has profound consequences on an individual's character, relationships, and overall well-being.

For example, a person who possesses piety will be cautious in their dealings with others, ensuring fairness, honesty, and justice. They will strive to fulfill their responsibilities towards their family, society, and the wider Muslim community. Their actions will be driven by a sincere desire to please Allah and seek His pleasure.

In contrast, a person lacking piety may be swayed by their desires, leading to unethical behavior, injustice, and harm to others. They may prioritize personal gain over moral principles, causing discord and corruption in society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking saying serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of cultivating piety in their lives. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with Allah and strive for righteousness in all aspects of our existence.

By embodying piety, we become individuals who are respected and influential in the eyes of Allah. Our actions and decisions will be guided by the principles of Islam, and we will become beacons of light in a world filled with darkness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of piety as the most authoritative and powerful quality one can possess. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which highlight the importance of piety as a criterion for nobility and success in the sight of Allah. Muslims are urged to prioritize piety in their lives, as it has profound consequences on their character, relationships, and overall well-being. May Allah grant us the ability to cultivate piety and seek His pleasure in all our actions.