Hadith #10888

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 family, his noble companions, and all the righteous Muslims.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "Al-wara'u afḍalu libās." This Hadith emphasizes the importance of piety, describing it as the most excellent attire. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "wara'" in Arabic refers to piety, righteousness, and the fear of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses a deep sense of consciousness and awareness of one's actions, thoughts, and intentions, with the intention of pleasing Allah and avoiding anything that displeases Him. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses all aspects of a person's life, including their beliefs, actions, and character.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of piety throughout 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 and submission to Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah states, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you

This verse reinforces the idea that true nobility and superiority lie in righteousness and piety. It is not wealth, status, or lineage that defines a person's worth, but rather their level of taqwa (piety) and devotion to Allah.

Imam Ali's statement, "Al-wara'u afḍalu libās," highlights the significance of piety as a garment that adorns and beautifies a person's character. Just as clothing covers and protects our physical bodies, piety covers and safeguards our souls. It is a shield against the temptations and vices of this world, guiding us towards righteousness and moral excellence.

When a person adorns themselves with the attire of piety, they become a beacon of light and guidance for others. Their actions and behavior reflect the teachings of Islam, inspiring those around them to strive for righteousness. This attire of piety not only benefits the individual but also has a positive impact on society as a whole.

Piety motivates us to fulfill our obligations towards Allah and His creation. It encourages us to establish regular prayers, give charity, and engage in acts of kindness and compassion. It compels us to refrain from backbiting, lying, and engaging in any form of injustice. Piety instills a sense of accountability and responsibility, reminding us that our actions have consequences both in this world and the hereafter.

Imam Ali's impactful Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of cultivating piety in their lives. It is not enough to merely perform rituals and outwardly display religious symbols. True piety lies in the sincerity of our intentions and the righteousness of our actions. It is a constant journey of self-reflection, self-improvement, and seeking closeness to Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of piety as the most excellent attire. It reminds us that true nobility and superiority lie in righteousness and devotion to Allah. By adorning ourselves with the garment of piety, we become beacons of light, inspiring others towards goodness and righteousness. May Allah guide us all on the path of piety and grant us the strength to embody its virtues.