Hadith #4216

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

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

اِتَّقُوا مَعاصِيَ الخَلَواتِ فَإنَّ الشّاهِدَ هُوَ الحاكِمُ۔

This Hadith is a profound reminder for all Muslims to be cautious of committing sins in seclusion, as the Witness to our actions is the ultimate Judge.

Let us first delve into the meaning of some key words in this Hadith. (Ittaqoo) "اِتَّقُوا" is derived from the root word "وَقَى" which means to fear or be cautious. It carries the connotation of being conscious of Allah's presence and avoiding anything that displeases Him. (ma'asiya) "مَعاصِيَ" refers to sins or acts of disobedience. (al-khalawat) "الخَلَواتِ" signifies seclusion or privacy, where one is alone and away from the eyes of others. (ash-shahid) "الشّاهِدَ" means the Witness, and (al-hakim) "الحاكِمُ" refers to the Judge or the one who passes judgment.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am (6:120),

And leave what is apparent of sin and what is concealed thereof. Indeed, those who earn [blame for] sin will be recompensed for that which they used to commit.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding both the apparent and concealed sins. It reminds us that Allah is fully aware of our actions, whether they are done openly or in secret. We must be mindful that even if no one else sees our sins, Allah is the Witness to all that we do.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Mulk (67:13), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And whether you conceal your speech or reveal it, indeed, He is Knowing of the innermost secrets.

This verse highlights the fact that Allah has knowledge of our innermost thoughts and intentions, even if we try to hide them. It serves as a reminder that we cannot escape His watchful gaze, and thus, we should be cautious in our actions, especially when we are alone.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges us to be wary of committing sins in seclusion because the Witness to our actions is the ultimate Judge. When we are alone, away from the eyes of others, it becomes easier to give in to our desires and engage in sinful behavior. However, this Hadith reminds us that Allah is always watching, and He will hold us accountable for our actions, whether they are done privately or publicly.

The consequences of committing sins in seclusion can be far-reaching. Not only do these actions distance us from Allah, but they also have the potential to corrupt our hearts and lead us further astray. Moreover, when we engage in sinful behavior in secret, it erodes our integrity and undermines our moral character.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to develop a strong sense of taqwa (God-consciousness) that permeates every aspect of our lives, including our private moments. We should remember that our actions in seclusion are not hidden from Allah, and we will be held accountable for them. By avoiding sins in private, we protect ourselves from the negative consequences and strive to maintain a pure and righteous character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for all Muslims to be cautious of committing sins in seclusion. It highlights the fact that Allah is the Witness to our actions, and He is the ultimate Judge. By being mindful of His presence and avoiding sinful behavior, we can strive to lead a life that is pleasing to Him and seek His forgiveness for any mistakes we may have made. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the temptations of sin.