Hadith #10465

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

كَفى بِالمَرْءِ شُغْلاً بِنَفْسِهِ عَنِ النّاسِ۔

This can be translated as,

Being preoccupied with one’s soul is enough to keep a person distracted from the people.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran.

The word (shughl) "شُغْل" in the Hadith refers to being occupied or engrossed in something. It implies being so absorbed in one's own affairs that it distracts a person from paying attention to others. The word (nafsihi) "نَفْسِهِ" means one's own self or soul. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement, which can lead to detachment from worldly distractions and concerns.

The Quran provides guidance on the significance of self-reflection and self-improvement. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse highlights the importance of individuals reflecting on their own actions and deeds, and being conscious of the consequences they will face in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ghashiyah (88:21-22), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

So remind, if the reminder should benefit; He who fears [Allah] will be reminded. But the wretched one will avoid it.

These verses emphasize the role of self-awareness and self-reflection in seeking guidance and righteousness. Those who are mindful of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will benefit from reminders and strive to improve themselves, while those who neglect self-reflection will turn away from it.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement encourages Muslims to prioritize self-improvement and self-awareness over excessive preoccupation with worldly matters. By focusing on our own souls and striving to purify them, we can attain spiritual growth and become better individuals. This entails reflecting on our thoughts, actions, and intentions, and constantly seeking to align them with the teachings of Islam.

When we are engrossed in our own self-improvement, we naturally become less concerned with the opinions and judgments of others. This does not mean that we isolate ourselves from society or neglect our responsibilities towards others. Rather, it implies that our primary focus should be on rectifying our own character and conduct, which will ultimately positively impact our interactions with others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual journey and personal growth. By dedicating time and effort to self-reflection and self-improvement, we can detach ourselves from the distractions of the world and focus on attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This will not only benefit us individually but also enable us to positively influence and inspire those around us.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to be preoccupied with our own souls and strive for self-improvement. May He guide us to reflect on our actions and intentions, and may He bless us with the ability to positively impact the lives of others through our own spiritual growth. Ameen.