Hadith #2969

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he describes the position and role of the Ahl al-Bayt (the household of the Prophet) in the Islamic community. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first word to focus on is (numraqah) "نُمْرَقَةُ", which refers to a cushion or a pillow. It symbolizes a central and pivotal position that provides support and stability. In this context, it represents the Ahl al-Bayt, who hold a central and crucial role in the Muslim community. They are the source of guidance and knowledge, just as a cushion provides comfort and support.

The next word is (al-wustā) "الْوُسْطَى", which means the middle or the moderate. It signifies the balanced and just approach that the Ahl al-Bayt embody. They are the epitome of moderation and balance in matters of faith, ethics, and governance. This is in line with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the importance of moderation and avoiding extremes.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that the middle cushion is

joined by those who remain behind.

This implies that those who follow the Ahl al-Bayt and adhere to their teachings will be united with them. The Ahl al-Bayt serve as a unifying force, bringing together believers who strive to follow the path of righteousness and truth.

To support this concept, we find a beautiful verse in the Quran in Surah Al-Imran (3:103), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.

The Ahl al-Bayt, being the embodiment of the teachings of Allah and His Messenger, are the rope of Allah that unites the Muslim community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also mentions that the middle cushion is

to which those who have exceeded the limits return.

This indicates that those who have deviated from the path of righteousness and transgressed the boundaries set by Allah will find their way back through the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt. The Ahl al-Bayt possess the knowledge and wisdom to guide and rectify those who have strayed.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah.

This verse emphasizes the importance of returning to the guidance of Allah when one has gone astray. The Ahl al-Bayt, being the representatives of Allah's guidance, have the responsibility to guide and rectify those who have exceeded the limits.

In conclusion, this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the central and pivotal role of the Ahl al-Bayt in the Muslim community. They are the middle cushion that unites believers and guides those who have gone astray. Just as a cushion provides comfort and support, the Ahl al-Bayt provide guidance and wisdom to the Muslim ummah. It is our duty as Muslims to seek their teachings and follow their example in order to attain true guidance and success in this world and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to understand and implement the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt in our lives.