لاتُنالُ الصِّحَّةُ إلاّ بِالْحِمْيَةِ۔
Good health is not attained except through a good diet.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Good Health And The Healthy)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.
The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,
Good health is not attained except through a good diet.
This Hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and highlights the significance of a balanced and nutritious diet in achieving and preserving good health.
The word (sihha) "صِّحَّةُ" in the Hadith refers to good health, well-being, and soundness. It encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of a person's overall well-being. It is the state of being free from illness, disease, and any form of physical or mental impairment.
The word (himya) "حِمْيَةِ" in the Hadith refers to a good diet or a proper regimen. It implies the consumption of wholesome and nutritious food, while abstaining from harmful and unhealthy substances. It encompasses the idea of moderation, balance, and mindfulness in one's eating habits.
The Quran provides guidance and support for the importance of a good diet in maintaining good health. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31),
O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.
This verse emphasizes the importance of moderation in eating and drinking. It encourages Muslims to enjoy the blessings of food and drink but warns against excessive indulgence. Excessive consumption can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Therefore, maintaining a balanced and moderate approach to eating is essential for good health.
Furthermore, the Quran also highlights the importance of consuming wholesome and pure food. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:168),
O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.
This verse emphasizes the concept of halal (lawful) and tayyib (good) food. Muslims are encouraged to consume food that is permissible according to Islamic dietary laws and is also pure and wholesome. This includes avoiding harmful substances, such as alcohol, drugs, and excessive processed foods, which can have detrimental effects on one's health.
Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It highlights the direct relationship between a good diet and good health. By following a balanced and nutritious diet, Muslims can protect themselves from various diseases, strengthen their immune systems, and enhance their overall well-being.
A good diet not only benefits the physical health of an individual but also has a positive impact on their mental and spiritual well-being. When one consumes wholesome and pure food, they are more likely to have clarity of mind, increased energy levels, and a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This, in turn, enables them to perform their religious duties more effectively and lead a more fulfilling life.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of a good diet in attaining and maintaining good health. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which encourage moderation, balance, and the consumption of wholesome and pure food. By following a proper regimen and being mindful of what we eat, Muslims can lead healthier lives and fulfill their responsibilities as servants of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and discipline to make healthy choices and bless us with good health in this world and the hereafter.
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