Hadith #2020

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مِنْ مَأْمَنِهِ يُؤْتَي الحَذِرُ۔

This can be translated as,

Harm comes to the cautious one from his [own] place of security.

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

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (ma'manihi) "مَأْمَنِهِ" refers to one's place of security or refuge. It signifies a state of safety and protection. The word (yu'ta) "يُؤْتَي" means to be given or granted, while (al-hadhur) "الحَذِرُ" refers to harm or danger. Therefore, the Hadith suggests that harm can befall even those who are cautious and secure in their surroundings.

To comprehend the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:30),

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse highlights that even the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who was divinely protected, faced plots and dangers from those who opposed him. It demonstrates that harm can arise unexpectedly, even for the most cautious and secure individuals.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse emphasizes that trials and tribulations are an inevitable part of life, regardless of one's cautiousness or security. It serves as a reminder that harm can come to anyone, regardless of their precautions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to reflect upon the transient nature of worldly security. It reminds us that despite our best efforts to protect ourselves, we are ultimately reliant on Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) decree. It teaches us humility and the importance of placing our trust in Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We should not become complacent or arrogant due to our perceived safety, as harm can come from unexpected sources.

Furthermore, this Hadith reminds us to remain vigilant and prepared for any challenges that may arise. It encourages us to be proactive in seeking protection from harm, while recognizing that ultimate safety lies in the hands of Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ). We should not rely solely on our own efforts, but also turn to Allah in supplication and seek His guidance and protection.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims. It teaches us that harm can come to even the most cautious and secure individuals. It urges us to remain humble, trust in Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) plan, and seek His protection. By understanding and internalizing this Hadith, we can navigate the challenges of life with wisdom, resilience, and faith. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to comprehend and apply the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives.