Hadith #10776

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,

إذا فَسَدَتِ النِّيَّةُ وَقَعَتِ البَلِيَّةُ۔

This Hadith highlights the profound relationship between the purity of one's intention and the occurrence of afflictions. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding.

The word (niyyah) "نِيَّة" refers to one's intention or motive behind an action. It is the driving force that determines the righteousness or corruption of our deeds. When our intentions become corrupted, it means that our motives are no longer pure and sincere. This corruption of intention can manifest in various forms, such as seeking personal gain, showing off, or harboring ill-will towards others.

The word (baliyyah) "بَلِيَّة" refers to afflictions or calamities that befall individuals or communities. These afflictions can take the form of physical, emotional, or spiritual hardships. They serve as tests and trials from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to purify and strengthen our faith.

To understand the wise message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that Allah's tests are within our capacity to endure. However, when our intentions become corrupted, we may find ourselves overwhelmed by the afflictions that befall us.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tested?

This verse emphasizes that afflictions are an integral part of our journey of faith. They serve as a means to purify our intentions and strengthen our relationship with Allah.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that when our intentions become corrupted, our ability to withstand and overcome afflictions weakens. A corrupted intention leads to a lack of sincerity and devotion in our actions, making us vulnerable to the trials and tribulations of life.

For example, if a person performs acts of worship solely to gain recognition or praise from others, their intention becomes corrupted. This corruption of intention can lead to a lack of steadfastness and resilience when faced with difficulties. They may become disheartened and lose hope, unable to find solace in their faith during times of affliction.

Conversely, when our intentions are pure and sincere, we are better equipped to face the challenges that come our way. Our faith remains steadfast, and we find solace and strength in our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We are able to navigate through afflictions with patience, trust, and reliance on Allah's mercy and guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound connection between the purity of our intentions and the occurrence of afflictions. It serves as a powerful reminder to constantly purify our intentions and seek sincerity in our actions. By doing so, we can strengthen our faith, endure the trials of life, and ultimately attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us to have pure intentions and grant us the ability to face afflictions with patience and steadfastness.