Hadith #9238

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights a profound concept that challenges our understanding of what is desirable and what is not. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that a disliked act, which may not be favored by an individual, can lead to a praiseworthy outcome. On the other hand, an action that one loves, but whose outcome is dispraised, is ultimately less beneficial.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (makrooh) "مَكْرُوهٌ" refers to an act that is disliked or discouraged, but not sinful. It is an action that is not forbidden, but it is better to avoid it. The word (tuhmadu) "تُحْمَدُ" means to be praised or commended. It signifies that the result or consequence of the disliked act is praiseworthy. The word (khayr) "خَيْرٌ" means good or better. It emphasizes that the outcome of the disliked act is superior. The word (mahbub) "مَحْبُوب" refers to something that is loved or desired. It represents an action that is favored by an individual. The word (tudhammu) "تُذَمُّ" means to be dispraised or criticized. It indicates that the outcome of the action that one loves is disapproved.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:216)

And it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not know

This verse reminds us that our perception of what is good or bad may not align with the ultimate wisdom of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Sometimes, we may dislike certain actions or situations, but they may lead to beneficial outcomes that we cannot foresee. Conversely, we may be attracted to things that seem desirable, but they can have negative consequences.

Another verse that supports the concept of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 17:80)

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power

This verse reminds us to seek Allah's guidance and support in all our actions, regardless of our personal preferences. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on the ultimate outcome and seeking Allah's pleasure rather than being attached to our own desires.

Now, let us reflect on the implications of this Hadith in our lives as Muslims. It teaches us to prioritize the consequences and outcomes of our actions over our personal inclinations. We should not be solely driven by our desires and preferences, but rather consider the long-term effects of our choices. This Hadith encourages us to have a broader perspective and to trust in the wisdom of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) even when we may not fully understand the reasons behind certain actions or situations.

For example, fasting during the month of Ramadan may be challenging for some individuals, and they may dislike abstaining from food and drink. However, the praiseworthy result of fasting, such as increased self-discipline, spiritual growth, and empathy towards the less fortunate, outweighs the temporary discomfort. On the other hand, indulging in excessive worldly pleasures may be appealing to some, but the negative consequences on our spiritual well-being and the potential harm it may cause to ourselves and others make it dispraised.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us to prioritize the outcomes of our actions over our personal desires. It encourages us to trust in the wisdom of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to consider the long-term benefits and consequences of our choices. By doing so, we can align our actions with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and strive for a more fulfilling and righteous life as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to make choices that lead to praiseworthy outcomes.