Hadith #1225

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, "الإيمانُ أعلى غايَة۔" which translates to

Faith is the loftiest goal.

In this profound statement, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance and elevated status of faith in the life of a Muslim.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words. (faith) "الإيمان" refers to the belief and conviction in the heart, accompanied by righteous actions. It encompasses the acceptance of the Oneness of Allah, the Prophethood of Muhammad (ﷺ), and the belief in the Day of Judgment. (loftiest) "أعلى" signifies the highest, most exalted position or goal. And (goal) "غايَة" refers to the ultimate objective or purpose.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of faith and its central role in the life of a believer. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:2-3)

This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah - Who believe in the unseen, establish prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them

Here, Allah highlights the essential components of faith: belief in the unseen, establishing prayer, and giving in charity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah states, (Quran 49:15)

Indeed, the believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful

This verse emphasizes the active aspect of faith, where believers not only believe in Allah and His Messenger but also strive in the cause of Allah with their wealth and lives.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Faith is the loftiest goal,

highlights the supremacy of faith in a Muslim's life. Faith is not merely a passive belief, but an active force that drives a believer to strive for righteousness and to fulfill their obligations towards Allah and His creation. It is through faith that a Muslim finds purpose, guidance, and strength to navigate the challenges of life.

When faith becomes the highest goal, it becomes the driving force behind every action and decision. It shapes the character of a believer and influences their interactions with others. Faith motivates Muslims to seek knowledge, to establish justice, to show compassion, and to strive for excellence in all aspects of life.

Moreover, faith serves as a source of solace and comfort during times of difficulty and adversity. It provides reassurance that Allah is always watching over and guiding His believers. Faith enables Muslims to find meaning and purpose in their trials and tribulations, knowing that they are part of a greater plan designed by Allah's wisdom.

The consequences of making faith the loftiest goal are profound. It leads to a life of righteousness, sincerity, and devotion to Allah. It instills a sense of accountability and consciousness of Allah's presence in every aspect of life. Faith becomes the guiding light that illuminates the path towards eternal success and salvation.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded to prioritize their faith above all else. It serves as a reminder to continuously strengthen and nurture their belief in Allah and His Messenger. By doing so, they can strive towards attaining the loftiest goal of faith and experience the blessings and fulfillment that come with it.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Faith is the loftiest goal

emphasizes the paramount importance of faith in the life of a Muslim. It calls upon believers to make faith their highest objective, guiding their actions, decisions, and interactions. By prioritizing faith, Muslims can lead a life of righteousness, find solace in times of difficulty, and strive towards eternal success. May Allah grant us the ability to make faith our loftiest goal and bless us with unwavering conviction and righteous actions.