Hadith #4170

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

إنْ كُنتُمْ لامُحالَةَ مُتَنَزِّهينَ، فَتَنَزَّهُوا عَنْ مَعاصِي القُلُوبِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of purifying oneself from the vices of the heart in order to attain true purity.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (muhalata) "مُحالَةَ" means "necessity" or "compulsion." It implies that if we are truly determined and committed to attaining purity, then we must take necessary steps to achieve it. The word (mutanazzihin) "مُتَنَزِّهينَ" is derived from the root word (nazaha) "نَزَهَ", which means "to purify" or "to cleanse." It signifies the act of purifying oneself from all forms of impurities.

The phrase (ma'asi al-qulub) "مَعاصِي القُلُوبِ" refers to the vices or sins of the heart. It encompasses negative traits such as envy, arrogance, greed, and hatred. These vices corrupt the heart and hinder spiritual growth. Therefore, the Hadith urges us to purify our hearts from these sins in order to attain true purity.

To further understand the significance of purifying the heart, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ash-Shams (91:9-10),

He has succeeded who purifies it (the soul), and he has failed who instills it with corruption.

This verse emphasizes the importance of purifying the soul, which is closely connected to the purification of the heart. Those who strive to purify their hearts from vices are the ones who achieve success in the sight of Allah.

In Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse highlights the negative consequences of arrogance and pride, which are vices of the heart. Qarun, despite his wealth and power, was ultimately destroyed due to his arrogance and disregard for the rights of others. This serves as a warning to us, reminding us of the importance of purifying our hearts from such vices.

The consequences of not purifying our hearts are also evident in Surah Al-Mutaffifin (83:14-15), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

No! Rather, the stain has covered their hearts of that which they were earning. No! Indeed, from their Lord, that Day, they will be partitioned.

This verse highlights how the vices of the heart can lead to the spiritual darkness and separation from Allah. Those who allow their hearts to be stained with sins will face the consequences on the Day of Judgment.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that purifying our hearts from vices is not an easy task. It requires self-reflection, self-discipline, and constant effort. However, the rewards of purifying our hearts are immense. It allows us to attain true purity, strengthens our relationship with Allah, and enables us to embody the qualities of the righteous. By purifying our hearts, we become vessels of love, compassion, and righteousness, spreading goodness in our communities and striving for the betterment of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to purify ourselves from the vices of the heart in order to attain true purity. It reminds us of the importance of self-reflection and self-discipline in our journey towards spiritual growth. By purifying our hearts, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah guide us all to purify our hearts and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.