Hadith #9876

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he speaks about al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī upon hearing about his death. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes al-Ashtar's greatness by using the metaphor of a mountain. He says,

If he was a mountain, he would have been a great one, no hoofed animal would have reached its peak and no bird would have been able to fly over it.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) uses the metaphor of a mountain to emphasize the strength, stability, and grandeur of al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī's character. Mountains are known for their immovability and firmness, symbolizing steadfastness and resilience. Similarly, al-Ashtar possessed unwavering determination and commitment to righteousness.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that no hoofed animal would have reached the peak of this mountain. This signifies the inaccessibility of al-Ashtar's character to those who were not sincere and righteous. Just as a mountain's peak is unreachable for animals without the ability to climb, al-Ashtar's lofty moral standards and noble qualities were beyond the reach of those who lacked sincerity and integrity.

Moreover, the Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions that no bird would have been able to fly over this mountain. This highlights the exalted nature of al-Ashtar's character, as birds are often associated with freedom and soaring above worldly limitations. Just as a bird cannot fly over a mountain, those who lacked the moral and spiritual elevation would not be able to comprehend or match the virtues and qualities possessed by al-Ashtar.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

We sent aforetime our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that people may stand forth in justice.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and righteousness, qualities that al-Ashtar exemplified.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the significance of obedience, patience, and strength in the face of challenges, qualities that al-Ashtar demonstrated throughout his life.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) regarding al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for greatness in character and to uphold justice and righteousness. It teaches us that true greatness lies in unwavering commitment to principles and values, just as a mountain stands tall and firm amidst all challenges.

Furthermore, this Hadith encourages us to surround ourselves with individuals who possess noble qualities and to seek their guidance and inspiration. Al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī's character was so remarkable that even Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) praised him in such a profound manner. This highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and emulating the qualities of those who are righteous and virtuous.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) regarding al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī teaches us the importance of steadfastness, righteousness, and moral elevation. It reminds us to strive for greatness in character and to surround ourselves with individuals who possess noble qualities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to emulate the virtues of al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī and to uphold justice and righteousness in all aspects of our lives.