Hadith #2034

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,

Do not combat the one who seeks the support of truth, for the one who fights the truth is [always] defeated.

This wise utterance emphasizes the importance of upholding and defending the truth, while also cautioning against opposing those who are on the side of truth.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The word (tughālib) "تُغالِبْ" means to combat or fight against. It implies engaging in a struggle or conflict with someone. (man yastaẓhiru bil-ḥaqq) "مَنْ يَسْتَظْهِرُ بِالحَقِّ" refers to the one who seeks the support of truth. This person recognizes the truth and aligns themselves with it, seeking its protection and assistance. (mughāliba al-ḥaqq) "مُغالِبَ الحَقِّ" means the one who fights against the truth, opposing it and attempting to suppress it. And finally, (maghlūb) "مَغْلُوبٌ" signifies being defeated or overcome.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:36),

Indeed, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to avert [people] from the way of Allah. So they will spend it; then it will be for them a [source of] regret; then they will be overcome.

This verse highlights the consequences of opposing the truth. Those who fight against the truth, using their resources and influence to hinder its progress, will ultimately be defeated and regret their actions.

Another relevant Quranic verse is found in Surah Yunus (10:82), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And Allah will establish the truth by His words, even if the criminals dislike it.

This verse assures us that the truth will always prevail, regardless of the opposition it faces. Those who fight against the truth may temporarily hinder its spread, but they can never extinguish its light completely.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to align themselves with the truth and support those who seek it. It encourages us to stand firm in the face of opposition and not to engage in futile conflicts with those who are on the side of truth. By doing so, we avoid wasting our energy and resources on fruitless endeavors.

Moreover, this Hadith teaches us the importance of recognizing the consequences of fighting against the truth. History is replete with examples of individuals and nations who opposed the truth and suffered defeat as a result. The Pharaoh of Egypt, for instance, fought against the truth brought by Prophet Moses (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and ultimately met a humiliating end.

In our personal lives, this Hadith reminds us to be mindful of our interactions with others. We should not engage in arguments or disputes with those who are sincerely seeking the truth. Instead, we should strive to guide them gently and respectfully, presenting the truth in a way that is conducive to understanding and acceptance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to uphold and defend the truth, while cautioning against engaging in futile conflicts with those who are on the side of truth. It highlights the consequences of opposing the truth and emphasizes the ultimate victory of truth over falsehood. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize and support the truth, and protect us from engaging in conflicts that are devoid of purpose and benefit.