Hadith #4108

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Remembrance of Allah illuminates the visions and comforts the consciences.

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

The word (Dhikr) "ذِكْرُ" in Arabic refers to the remembrance of Allah. It encompasses various acts of worship, including recitation of the Quran, supplication, and praising Allah's attributes. Dhikr is not limited to mere verbal utterances; it is a comprehensive concept that involves both the heart and the tongue. It is through Dhikr that we establish a deep connection with our Creator and seek His guidance and mercy.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of Dhikr in the Quran. In Surah Al-Ra'd (13:28), Allah says,

Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah, hearts are assured.

This verse highlights that the remembrance of Allah brings tranquility and peace to the hearts of believers. It is through Dhikr that we find solace and contentment in our lives.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:45), Allah states,

Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.

This verse emphasizes that Dhikr is greater than any other act of worship in preventing us from engaging in sinful behavior. It serves as a shield against immorality and wrongdoing, guiding us towards righteousness and piety.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that the remembrance of Allah "illuminates the visions." This illumination refers to the clarity and insight that one gains through Dhikr. When we remember Allah and reflect upon His attributes and teachings, our vision becomes enlightened, and we are able to perceive the truth and distinguish between right and wrong. This illumination enables us to make wise decisions and navigate through the challenges of life with wisdom and guidance from Allah.

The Quran affirms the concept of illumination through Dhikr in Surah Al-Noor (24:35), where Allah says,

Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The example of His light is like a niche within which is a lamp, the lamp is within glass, the glass as if it were a pearly [white] star lit from [the oil of] a blessed olive tree, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil would almost glow even if untouched by fire. Light upon light. Allah guides to His light whom He wills. And Allah presents examples for the people, and Allah is Knowing of all things.

This verse beautifully illustrates that Allah's light guides those who remember Him, illuminating their path and granting them clarity and understanding.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also mentions that the remembrance of Allah "comforts the consciences." Dhikr brings solace and tranquility to our hearts and minds. It helps alleviate the burdens of guilt, regret, and anxiety that we may carry. Through Dhikr, we seek forgiveness, mercy, and guidance from Allah, which brings inner peace and contentment. It is through the remembrance of Allah that we find solace in times of distress and reassurance in times of doubt.

The Quran reinforces the concept of comforting consciences through Dhikr in Surah Al-Ra'd (13:28), as mentioned earlier. Allah assures us that the remembrance of Him brings tranquility to our hearts, soothing our worries and fears. Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152), Allah says,

So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.

This verse highlights the reciprocal nature of Dhikr, where Allah promises to remember and comfort those who remember Him.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the profound effects of the remembrance of Allah. It illuminates our visions, enabling us to see the truth and make wise decisions. It comforts our consciences, bringing inner peace and solace. Through Dhikr, we establish a deep connection with Allah, seeking His guidance, mercy, and forgiveness. May we strive to remember Allah in all aspects of our lives, and may our hearts be illuminated and our consciences comforted through this beautiful act of worship.