Hadith #3535

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of sincerity in supplication. The word used in the Hadith for supplication is (ad-du'a) "الدُّعاءِ", which refers to the act of calling upon Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for help, guidance, and forgiveness. It is a means through which a Muslim can establish a direct connection with their Creator.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to make our supplications sincere, as this sincerity increases the likelihood of our prayers being answered by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word used for sincerity in the Hadith is (ikhlas) "إخلاْصِ", which means to purify and make something solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It entails having a pure intention and seeking Allah's pleasure alone in our supplications.

The importance of sincerity in supplication is emphasized in the Quran as well. In Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:39), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

So invoke Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, although the disbelievers dislike it.

This verse highlights the need for sincerity in our worship and supplication, even in the face of opposition or disapproval from others. It reminds us that our focus should be on pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone.

Furthermore, in Surah Ghafir (40:60), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And your Lord says, 'Call upon Me; I will respond to you.' Indeed, those who disdain My worship will enter Hell [rendered] contemptible.

This verse assures us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will respond to our sincere supplications. It also warns against neglecting or belittling the act of worship, as it can lead to severe consequences.

When we make our supplications sincere, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Sincerity in supplication reflects our trust in Allah's mercy and power, as well as our recognition of our dependence on Him. It is an expression of humility and submission to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Sincere supplication has numerous benefits in our lives. Firstly, it strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and deepens our faith. When we turn to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) with sincerity, we acknowledge His presence and seek His guidance and assistance. This connection with our Creator brings us peace, comfort, and a sense of purpose.

Secondly, sincere supplication helps us to develop a sense of gratitude and contentment. When we sincerely ask Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for our needs and desires, we become more aware of the blessings that He has already bestowed upon us. This gratitude leads to contentment and a greater appreciation for the blessings in our lives.

Thirdly, sincere supplication can bring about positive changes in our circumstances. While the ultimate decision rests with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), our sincere supplications can serve as a means for us to seek His intervention and assistance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) may grant our requests, provide us with guidance, or bless us with patience and strength to face our challenges.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of sincerity in supplication. By making our supplications sincere, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Sincere supplication strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), deepens our faith, and brings about positive changes in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to make our supplications sincere and accept them.