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إيّاكَ وفِعْلَ القَبِيحِ، فَإنَّهُ يُقَبِّحُ ذِكْرَكَ، ويُكَثِّرُ وِزْرَكَ۔

You must keep away from evil action, for indeed it dishonours your reputation and increases your burden.

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You must keep away from evil action, for indeed it dishonours your...

— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Actions And Deeds)

Personal Reflection

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 (), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to refrain from engaging in evil actions. The word (iyaaka) "إيّاكَ" in the Hadith is a form of warning, emphasizing the importance of avoiding such actions. The word (fi'la) "فِعْلَ" refers to the act or action being performed. And the word (al-qabeel) "القَبِيحِ" refers to the evil or wicked action.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains the consequences of engaging in evil actions. He states that such actions dishonor one's reputation and increase their burden. The word (dhikrak) "ذِكْرَكَ" refers to one's remembrance or mention, and in this context, it refers to one's reputation or image. The word (wizrak) "وِزْرَكَ" refers to one's burden or sins.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of avoiding evil actions and their consequences. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:33), Allah says,

Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed - and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.'

This verse highlights the prohibition of immoral actions and sins, both those that are apparent and those that are hidden. It emphasizes the importance of refraining from engaging in evil deeds, as they are forbidden by Allah. By avoiding such actions, one preserves their reputation and protects themselves from the consequences of sin.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:32), Allah says,

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse specifically warns against engaging in unlawful sexual acts, highlighting the evil nature of such actions. By abstaining from these immoral acts, one maintains their dignity and protects their reputation.

The consequences of evil actions are also mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), where Allah says,

Allah does not charge a soul except [with that within] its capacity. It will have [the consequence of] what [good] it has gained, and it will bear [the consequence of] what [evil] it has earned.

This verse reminds us that every action has consequences, and we will be held accountable for our deeds. Engaging in evil actions burdens the soul and increases the weight of our sins.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their actions and to strive for righteousness. By avoiding evil actions, we protect our reputation and lighten our burden. Engaging in evil deeds tarnishes our image and increases the weight of our sins, making it more difficult for us to attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.

Let us reflect upon this profound Hadith and strive to distance ourselves from evil actions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us on the path of righteousness and protect us from the temptations of evil. May we always be mindful of our actions and seek to purify our hearts and souls.

. : . (Readers are advised to verify the sources mentioned above, and to independently research for an accurate understanding of Hadith. Remember, personal research and seeking guidance from scholars are essential in gaining a better insight. Please, do contact us if you find any wrong citations or explanations.)

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