Hadith #10432

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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) highlights the source of misguidance for human souls. It states,

The misguidance of souls is between the impulses of lust and anger.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the two powerful forces that can lead individuals astray if not controlled and channeled properly.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (misguidance) "ضَلالُ" refers to going astray or deviating from the right path. (souls) "النُّفُوسِ" signifies the inner self or the essence of a person. (impulses) "دَواعِي" refers to the driving forces or motivations that push individuals towards certain actions or behaviors. Finally, (lust and anger) "الشَّهْوَةِ والغَضَبِ" represent two powerful emotions that can overpower one's rationality and lead to destructive consequences if not controlled.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the dangers of succumbing to our desires and anger in several verses. In Surah Yusuf, Allah says, (12:53)

Indeed, the soul is a persistent enjoiner of evil, except those upon which my Lord has mercy

This verse emphasizes the inherent inclination of the soul towards evil and the need for divine guidance and mercy to overcome it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah advises us to control our anger by saying, (3:133)

And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden as wide as the heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous

This verse encourages us to seek forgiveness and control our anger, reminding us of the rewards that await those who exhibit patience and self-restraint.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the impulses of lust and anger. Lust refers to the intense desire for worldly pleasures, which can lead individuals to engage in immoral actions and disregard the boundaries set by Allah. Similarly, anger, if not controlled, can lead to destructive behavior, harming oneself and others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the importance of self-control and moderation in dealing with these impulses. By recognizing the potential harm that can arise from unchecked desires and uncontrolled anger, individuals can strive to align their actions with the teachings of Islam.

For example, when faced with the temptation of lust, a Muslim should remember the verse from Surah Al-An'am, where Allah says, (17:32)

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way

This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of indulging in unlawful desires and encourages Muslims to seek purity and righteousness.

Similarly, when confronted with anger, a Muslim should remember the verse from Surah Fussilat, where Allah says, (25:63)

And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace

This verse teaches Muslims to respond to anger with patience and to strive for peaceful resolutions, rather than succumbing to the destructive nature of anger.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be vigilant and cautious of the impulses of lust and anger. By recognizing the potential misguidance that can arise from these emotions, individuals can strive to control and channel them in a manner that aligns with the teachings of Islam. Through self-control and moderation, Muslims can navigate through the challenges of life and seek guidance from the Quran to stay on the path of righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to overcome our desires and anger, and guide us towards the straight path.