Hadith #6003

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الطاعة إجابة" which translates to "Obedience is compliance." Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (ta'ah) "طاعة" refers to obedience, submission, and compliance. It signifies willingly following the commands and instructions of a higher authority. Obedience is not merely a superficial act, but a manifestation of one's faith and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is an act of surrendering one's will to the Divine will, acknowledging that Allah is the ultimate authority and source of guidance.

The word (ijabah) "إجابة" means compliance or response. It implies that obedience is not just about outwardly following orders, but also about internalizing and implementing them. It is a response to the call of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), a sincere effort to align one's actions with the divine commandments.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of obedience in numerous verses. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:208),

O you who have believed, enter into peace completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse highlights the need for complete obedience to Allah's commands, as it leads to inner peace and protection from the temptations of Satan.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:59), Allah says,

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you. And if you disagree over anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day. That is the best [way] and best in result.

This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to both Allah and His Messenger, as well as those in authority. It encourages Muslims to seek guidance from the Quran and the Sunnah when faced with disagreements or disputes.

Imam Ali's statement, "Obedience is compliance," highlights the inseparable connection between obedience and compliance. It reminds us that true obedience is not limited to mere lip service or superficial actions. Rather, it requires a sincere and wholehearted commitment to implementing the divine commands in our daily lives.

When we comply with the commands of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), we align ourselves with the path of righteousness and attain spiritual growth. Obedience brings us closer to Allah, strengthens our faith, and purifies our hearts. It is through obedience that we demonstrate our love and devotion to our Creator.

On the other hand, disobedience leads to spiritual decline and distances us from the path of righteousness. Allah warns us in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:87),

O you who have believed, do not prohibit the good things which Allah has made lawful to you and do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

Disobedience to Allah's commands not only goes against His will but also leads to transgression and displeasure.

Imam Ali's beautiful Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize obedience and compliance in their lives. It urges us to strive for complete submission to the will of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), recognizing that true success lies in following their guidance. May we all strive to be obedient and compliant Muslims, seeking the pleasure of Allah in all aspects of our lives.