مَنْ يَسْتَيْقِنْ يَعْمَلْ جاهِداً۔
One who has certitude works diligently.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Certitude)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.
The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,
مَنْ يَسْتَيْقِنْ يَعْمَلْ جاهِداً۔
This can be translated as,
One who has certitude works diligently.
Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance in light of the Quran.
The word (yastaqin) "يَسْتَيْقِنْ" in this Hadith refers to having certitude or firm belief. It signifies a state of unwavering conviction and clarity in one's faith. When a Muslim possesses such certitude, it becomes a driving force that compels them to take action.
To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,
The believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.
This verse emphasizes the importance of unwavering belief and the subsequent striving in the path of Allah.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Asr (103:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,
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 inseparable connection between true belief and righteous actions. It is through the combination of faith and action that one can attain salvation.
Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of not only having certitude but also acting upon it diligently. When a person truly believes in the principles of Islam and has unwavering faith, it naturally motivates them to engage in continuous struggle and effort in the path of Allah.
This Hadith serves as a reminder that mere belief is not enough; it must be accompanied by action. A Muslim who possesses certitude will actively strive to fulfill their obligations, seek knowledge, engage in acts of worship, and contribute positively to society. They will constantly strive to improve themselves and their communities, guided by the principles of Islam.
For example, a Muslim who has certitude in the importance of seeking knowledge will diligently pursue education and continuously strive to increase their understanding of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). They will recognize that knowledge is a means of empowerment and a way to serve Allah and humanity.
Similarly, a Muslim who has certitude in the significance of charity will actively seek opportunities to give in charity and support those in need. They will understand that their wealth is a trust from Allah and a means to alleviate the suffering of others.
The consequences of acting diligently with certitude are manifold. Firstly, it strengthens one's relationship with Allah and increases their spiritual growth. By actively engaging in acts of worship and fulfilling their obligations, a Muslim deepens their connection with the Divine and experiences the sweetness of faith.
Secondly, acting diligently with certitude leads to personal growth and development. By continuously striving to improve oneself, a Muslim becomes a better individual, both morally and ethically. They become a source of inspiration and guidance for others, embodying the teachings of Islam in their actions.
Lastly, acting diligently with certitude has a positive impact on society. When Muslims actively contribute to their communities, they become agents of positive change. Their actions inspire others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of goodness and righteousness.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that certitude is not a passive state but a catalyst for action. It urges Muslims to have unwavering belief and to actively strive in the path of Allah. By combining certitude with diligent action, Muslims can attain spiritual growth, personal development, and positively impact society. May Allah grant us all the certitude and motivation to work diligently in His cause.
Join our community to daily receive one short Hadith of Imam Ali a.s on your device. |