Hadith #1861

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

The most excellent Jihād is struggling against the self.

This beautiful Hadith emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and self-improvement in the path of righteousness. Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word "Jihād" in Arabic refers to striving or struggling in the cause of Allah. It encompasses various forms of struggle, including physical combat, intellectual endeavors, and spiritual battles. However, in this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) specifically highlights the significance of "Jihād an-Nafs" or struggling against the self.

The term "Nafs" refers to the human self or soul. It represents the inner desires, inclinations, and weaknesses that can lead a person astray from the path of righteousness. Struggling against the self involves exerting effort to overcome these negative tendencies and align oneself with the teachings of Islam.

The Quran provides profound insights and guidance on the concept of struggling against the self. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 29:69)

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes that those who strive and struggle in the cause of Allah will be guided by Him.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 103:1-3)

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse highlights the importance of righteous actions and mutual advice in the pursuit of salvation.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the greatest struggle is not against external enemies, but against our own selves. It is a battle to overcome our desires, temptations, and weaknesses. This internal struggle requires self-discipline, self-reflection, and constant self-improvement.

By engaging in Jihād an-Nafs, we strive to purify our intentions, control our anger, resist temptations, and cultivate positive qualities such as patience, gratitude, and humility. It is through this struggle that we can attain spiritual growth and draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified the concept of Jihād an-Nafs through his profound knowledge, wisdom, and self-restraint. His unparalleled understanding of the Quran and his ability to apply its teachings in his own life serve as an inspiration for all Muslims.

The consequences of neglecting Jihād an-Nafs can be detrimental to our spiritual well-being. If we allow our desires and weaknesses to overpower us, we may deviate from the path of righteousness and fall into sinful behavior. This can lead to a loss of inner peace, contentment, and ultimately, the displeasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of Jihād an-Nafs or struggling against the self. It reminds us that the greatest battle we face is within ourselves, as we strive to overcome our desires and weaknesses in order to align ourselves with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to engage in this noble struggle and attain spiritual growth.