Hadith #11326

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims about the dangers of following one's vain desires. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, warns that if one chooses to obey their base desires, it will lead to detrimental consequences. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its important words and their meanings in light of the Quran.

The word (ata'ta) "أطَعْتَ" in the Hadith means "if you obey." It signifies the act of following and submitting to something or someone. In this context, it refers to following one's vain desires, which are the whims and inclinations that deviate from the path of righteousness. The word (hawak) "هَواكَ" means "your vain desires." It encompasses the desires and inclinations that are driven by ego, selfishness, and worldly temptations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that if one chooses to follow their vain desires, it will have severe consequences. The Hadith states that it will

make you deaf and blind.

This metaphorical language highlights the spiritual consequences of indulging in base desires. Following one's vain desires blinds a person from recognizing the truth and deafens them to the guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It hinders their ability to perceive the reality of their actions and the consequences that lie ahead.

To support this exegesis, we find a relevant Quranic verse in Surah Al-Jathiyah (45:23), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Have you seen he who takes as his god his own desire? Then would you be responsible for him?

This verse emphasizes that when one follows their vain desires, they essentially make their desires their god, prioritizing them over the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Consequently, they become accountable for their actions and the consequences that follow.

Furthermore, the Hadith states that following one's vain desires will

ruin your place of [final] return.

The word (munqalabak) "مُنْقَلَبَكَ" refers to the ultimate destination or the final abode of a person. It signifies the Hereafter, where individuals will be held accountable for their actions. By following their vain desires, individuals jeopardize their place in the Hereafter. They risk losing the eternal bliss and proximity to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) that can only be attained through obedience and righteousness.

In Surah Al-Qasas (28:50), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

But if they turn away [from you, O Muhammad] - then only upon you is [responsibility for] clear notification.

This verse highlights the accountability of individuals for their choices and actions. If they choose to turn away from the guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and follow their vain desires, they will bear the consequences of their decisions.

Lastly, the Hadith states that following one's vain desires will "destroy you." The word (ardak) "أرْداكَ" refers to complete destruction and ruin. It signifies the utter loss and devastation that one will face as a result of indulging in their base desires. Following one's vain desires leads to a life of spiritual bankruptcy, where one is disconnected from the mercy and guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It destroys the soul and hinders its growth and purification.

In Surah Al-Isra (17:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And when We bestow favor upon man, he turns away and distances himself; but when evil touches him, then he is full of extensive supplication.

This verse highlights the tendency of individuals to turn away from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) when they are bestowed with blessings, but turn to Him in desperation when faced with difficulties. Following one's vain desires leads to a state of heedlessness and distance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), ultimately resulting in destruction.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims to be cautious of following their vain desires. It warns of the spiritual consequences that arise from indulging in base desires, such as blindness to the truth, loss of the Hereafter, and ultimate destruction. By reflecting on the Quranic verses provided, we understand the importance of prioritizing the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over our own desires. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to overcome our vain desires and seek His pleasure.