Hadith #11022

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

الْمَوَاعِظُ كَهْفٌ لِمَنْ وَعَاهَا

which translates to

Admonitions are a sanctuary for one who heeds them.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of paying attention to and reflecting upon the advice and teachings that are imparted to us.

The word (mawāʿiẓ) "مَوَاعِظُ" in this Hadith refers to admonitions or counsel. It encompasses any form of guidance, advice, or teachings that are meant to guide individuals towards righteousness and protect them from the pitfalls of ignorance and wrongdoing. These admonitions serve as a sanctuary, a place of refuge and protection, for those who not only receive them but also internalize and act upon them.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

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

This verse highlights the importance of seeking provisions for our journey in this world. While physical provisions are necessary, the best provision is Taqwa, which can be understood as God-consciousness, piety, and righteousness. Taqwa is attained through heeding the admonitions and guidance provided by Allah and His messengers.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 6, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying information before acting upon it. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to be cautious and not to blindly accept or act upon any advice or information without proper investigation and understanding. By doing so, we protect ourselves from falling into ignorance and causing harm to others.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) complements these Quranic verses by highlighting the sanctuary that admonitions provide for those who pay attention to them. When we listen to and internalize the guidance and teachings that are imparted to us, we create a protective shield against ignorance, wrongdoing, and the harmful consequences that may arise from them.

By heeding admonitions, we equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions and navigate the challenges of life. This knowledge acts as a sanctuary, shielding us from the negative consequences of ignorance and guiding us towards the path of righteousness and success.

For example, when we receive advice on the importance of honesty and integrity in our dealings, we are less likely to engage in fraudulent or unethical practices. This adherence to admonitions not only safeguards our own well-being but also contributes to the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the sanctuary that admonitions provide for those who pay attention to them. By heeding the guidance and teachings that are imparted to us, we protect ourselves from ignorance, wrongdoing, and their harmful consequences. It is incumbent upon us, as Muslims, to seek knowledge, reflect upon it, and act upon it in order to benefit from the sanctuary of admonitions and lead a righteous and successful life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to heed admonitions and guide us on the straight path.