Hadith #4022

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides us with valuable insights into the factors that test the faith of a person. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

1. (the strength of his religion) "قُوَّةُ الدينِ": This refers to the firmness and steadfastness of a person's faith. It signifies the depth of one's belief in Allah and the principles of Islam. The Quran emphasizes the importance of strong faith in numerous verses, such as Surah Al-Hajj (22:78), where Allah says,

And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty.

2. (the truth of his conviction) "وصِدْقُ اليَقينِ": This highlights the sincerity and authenticity of a person's belief. It signifies the certainty and unwavering trust in the truth of Islam. The Quran encourages believers to have firm conviction in the message of Allah, as mentioned in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15),

Indeed, the believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.

3. (the intensity of his piety) "وَشِدَّةُ التَّقوى": This refers to the level of devotion and righteousness in a person's actions. It signifies the strength of one's fear of Allah and the conscious effort to adhere to His commands. The Quran emphasizes the importance of piety in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), where Allah says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

4. (his overcoming vain desires) "مُغالَبَةُ الهَوى": This highlights the ability to control and overcome one's base desires and inclinations. It signifies the struggle against temptations and the pursuit of self-discipline. The Quran warns against following one's desires in Surah Al-Qasas (28:50),

But if they do not respond to you - then know that they only follow their own desires. And who is more astray than one who follows his desire without guidance from Allah?

5. (the paucity of his [worldly] inclinations) "وقِلَّةُ الرََّغْبِ": This refers to the detachment from worldly possessions and desires. It signifies the moderation in seeking material wealth and the focus on the hereafter. The Quran reminds us of the temporary nature of worldly possessions in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children.

6. (his being moderate in what he seeks) "الإجْمالُ فِي الطَّلَبِ": This highlights the importance of balance and moderation in one's pursuits. It signifies avoiding extremes and maintaining a balanced approach in seeking both worldly and spiritual goals. The Quran encourages moderation in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:143),

And thus We have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can understand that the strength of our faith is tested by various factors. It is not merely limited to rituals and beliefs, but also encompasses the sincerity of our convictions, the intensity of our piety, our ability to overcome worldly desires, our detachment from material possessions, and our pursuit of a balanced and moderate lifestyle.

By striving to strengthen these aspects of our faith, we can navigate the challenges of life and fulfill our purpose as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to pass these tests and increase our faith.