Hadith #10883

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

أحْسَنُ اللِّباسِ اَلْوَرَعُ، وخَيْرُ الذُّخْرِ التَّقْوى۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of two qualities: piety (ورع) and God-wariness (تقوى). Let us delve into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The term (piety) "ورع" refers to the state of being cautious and mindful of one's actions, especially in matters of religious observance. It encompasses a deep sense of consciousness and fear of displeasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Piety is not merely an external display of religious practices, but rather an internal state of purity and righteousness. It is the adornment of the soul, which reflects in one's behavior and character.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of piety in numerous verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 3:102)

O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him].

This verse highlights the significance of piety as a fundamental aspect of faith. It is through piety that one truly submits to the will of Allah and seeks to fulfill His commandments.

The second quality mentioned in the Hadith is (God-wariness) "تقوى". It refers to a state of consciousness and mindfulness of Allah's presence, which leads to refraining from actions that displease Him. God-wariness entails being aware of the consequences of one's actions and striving to align oneself with the divine will. It is the provision that sustains a person on their journey towards righteousness.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of God-wariness. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:13)

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that the true measure of nobility and excellence lies in one's righteousness and God-wariness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith beautifully encapsulates the essence of true adornment and provision. The most excellent attire one can adorn is piety, which reflects in their actions, speech, and character. It is through piety that one attains true beauty and righteousness in the sight of Allah.

Similarly, the best provision one can possess is God-wariness. It is through God-wariness that one is able to navigate the challenges of life, making choices that are pleasing to Allah. God-wariness serves as a guiding light, protecting one from the pitfalls of sin and leading them towards the path of righteousness.

By emphasizing the importance of piety and God-wariness, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true success lies in adorning ourselves with these qualities. They are the garments and provisions that will accompany us in this world and the Hereafter. Let us strive to cultivate piety and God-wariness in our lives, seeking to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all that we do. May Allah grant us the ability to embody these qualities and attain His pleasure.