Hadith #6168

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.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ما ظَفِرَ مَنْ ظَفَرَ الإثْمُ بِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

He who has been vanquished by sin has not gained victory.

To understand the connotation behind this statement, let us delve into the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (zafira) "ظَفِرَ" comes from the root word (zafara) "ظفر", which means to gain victory or triumph. It signifies achieving success or overcoming a challenge. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is referring to a different kind of victory, one that is not achieved through sinful actions.

The word (ithm) "إثْمُ" translates to sin. It refers to any action or behavior that goes against the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It includes both major sins, such as murder and theft, as well as minor sins, like lying or backbiting. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the fact that indulging in sin does not lead to true victory or success.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216:

Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse reminds us that sometimes we may be inclined towards actions that are harmful for us, while we may dislike things that are actually beneficial. It is a test of our faith and obedience to Allah's commandments. Indulging in sinful actions may provide temporary satisfaction or pleasure, but in the long run, it leads to spiritual defeat and loss.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-A'raf, verse 200:

And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Satan, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is Hearing and Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) when faced with temptations or evil suggestions. It reminds us that true victory lies in seeking protection from Allah and resisting the temptations of sin. By doing so, we can overcome the whispers of Satan and attain spiritual success.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is teaching us that true victory is not achieved through sinful actions, but rather through righteousness and obedience to Allah's commandments. Indulging in sin may provide temporary pleasure or gratification, but it ultimately leads to spiritual defeat and loss. In contrast, refraining from sin and seeking Allah's protection leads to true success and victory.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their actions and to strive for righteousness in all aspects of their lives. It encourages us to reflect upon the consequences of our choices and to seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to resist the temptations of sin and guide us towards the path of righteousness. May we all strive for true victory and success in this world and the Hereafter.