Hadith #2682

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "المُحارِبُ لِلْحَقِّ مَحْرُوبٌ۔" This can be translated as,

One who wages war against the truth is ruined.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this enlightening saying in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (muharib) "مُحَارِبُ" refers to someone who engages in warfare or combat. In this context, it signifies someone who actively opposes or fights against the truth. The word (lil-haqq) "لِلْحَقِّ" means "for the truth" or "against the truth." It encompasses all forms of falsehood, ignorance, and deviation from the path of righteousness. Finally, the word (mahrub) "مَحْرُوبٌ" means "ruined" or "destroyed." It implies that those who persist in opposing the truth will ultimately meet a disastrous fate.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. For instance, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:36), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to avert [people] from the way of Allah. So they will spend it; then it will be for them a [source of] regret; then they will be overcome.

This verse highlights the consequences faced by those who oppose the truth. Despite their efforts to hinder the path of Allah, they will ultimately regret their actions and be defeated.

Another verse that sheds light on the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:71), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Or do they think that We hear not their secrets and their private conversations? Yes, [We do], and Our messengers are with them recording.

This verse emphasizes that even the private conversations and hidden intentions of those who oppose the truth are known to Allah. Their actions will not go unnoticed, and they will be held accountable for their deeds.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that the path of truth is one that should be embraced and defended. Those who choose to wage war against the truth are destined for ruin, both in this world and the hereafter. Their actions are futile, as they cannot alter the ultimate truth decreed by Allah.

The consequences of opposing the truth can be seen throughout history. For example, the Quraysh tribe, who vehemently opposed the message of Islam during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), eventually faced defeat and humiliation. Their arrogance and refusal to accept the truth led to their downfall.

Moreover, this Hadith also serves as a motivation for Muslims to actively seek knowledge and strive to understand the truth. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom. He emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding, as it is through knowledge that one can discern the truth from falsehood.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the consequences faced by those who oppose the truth. It serves as a warning against engaging in falsehood and deviation from the path of righteousness. By embracing the truth and seeking knowledge, Muslims can strive to align themselves with the divine will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and avoid the ruin that awaits those who wage war against the truth. May Allah guide us all to the straight path and protect us from falling into falsehood.