Hadith #2135

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الحَرَامُ سُحْتٌ۔" This can be translated into English as,

The prohibited is illicit.

Let us delve into the meaning of the important words in this Hadith. "الحَرَامُ" refers to anything that is forbidden or prohibited in Islam. It encompasses actions, behaviors, and substances that are deemed unlawful by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). "سُحْتٌ" means something that is illicit, impure, or morally corrupt. It refers to actions or things that are not permissible according to Islamic teachings.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, which is the ultimate source of guidance for all Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of avoiding the prohibited and adhering to what is lawful.

One such verse is found in Surah Al-Baqarah, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:29)

O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent. And do not kill yourselves [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is to you ever Merciful.

This verse highlights the prohibition of unjustly taking someone else's wealth and the prohibition of taking one's own life. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to what is lawful and avoiding what is forbidden. The consequences of engaging in such prohibited actions are severe, as they lead to harm and corruption within society.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 5:90)

O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.

This verse explicitly mentions some specific prohibitions, such as the consumption of intoxicants and engaging in gambling. It highlights that these actions are impure and are from the works of Satan. By avoiding such prohibited actions, one can attain success in this life and the hereafter.

Now, let us reflect on the significance of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). It serves as a reminder to all Muslims that anything that is prohibited in Islam is inherently corrupt and impure. Engaging in such actions or indulging in forbidden substances leads to negative consequences for both individuals and society as a whole.

For example, if we look at the prohibition of backbiting and spreading false rumors, we can see the wisdom behind it. Backbiting not only harms the reputation and dignity of the person being talked about but also creates divisions and animosity among people. By refraining from such prohibited actions, we can foster unity, trust, and a harmonious society.

Similarly, the prohibition of consuming intoxicants and engaging in gambling is rooted in the recognition of their detrimental effects on individuals and society. These actions lead to addiction, loss of wealth, and the breakdown of families. By avoiding such illicit activities, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the harms they bring.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to strive to lead a life that is pure and free from impurities. It encourages us to seek knowledge about what is lawful and what is prohibited, so that we may make informed choices and live in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "الحَرَامُ سُحْتٌ۔" conveys a wise message about the nature of the prohibited in Islam. It reminds us that anything forbidden is inherently corrupt and impure. By adhering to what is lawful and avoiding what is prohibited, we can lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and beneficial for ourselves and society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow His commands and stay away from the prohibited.