Hadith #9713

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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) states,

Keeping away from the forbidden is one of the conditions of magnanimity.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of abstaining from what is prohibited in Islam as a prerequisite for displaying true nobility and greatness of character.

Let us delve into the meaning of some key words in this Hadith. The word (sharā’iṭi) "شَرَائِطِ" refers to conditions or requirements. (al-murūwah) "المُرُوَّةِ" can be translated as magnanimity, nobility, or chivalry. (tanazzuhu) "التَّنَزُّهُ" means to keep away or abstain from something. And (al-ḥarām) "الحَرَامِ" refers to what is forbidden or prohibited in Islam.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:7),

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the importance of adhering to what the Messenger (ﷺ) has forbidden. It is a command from Allah Himself to abstain from what is prohibited. By doing so, we demonstrate our obedience to Allah and His Messenger, and we fulfill the condition of magnanimity mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:168), Allah says,

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 importance of consuming only what is lawful and pure. By refraining from the forbidden, we distance ourselves from the influence of Satan and protect ourselves from his evil whispers.

The consequences of disregarding the prohibition in Islam can have severe spiritual, moral, and societal implications. When Muslims engage in forbidden actions, they compromise their integrity and tarnish their character. This not only affects their relationship with Allah, but also their interactions with others. It erodes trust, damages relationships, and leads to a breakdown in the fabric of society.

On the other hand, when Muslims uphold the prohibition and abstain from what is forbidden, they exhibit strength of character, discipline, and self-control. They become role models for others, inspiring them to follow the path of righteousness. By adhering to the boundaries set by Allah, Muslims demonstrate their commitment to their faith and their desire to please their Creator.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the importance of keeping away from the forbidden as a condition of magnanimity. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the significance of adhering to the teachings of Islam and avoiding what is prohibited. It encourages us to constantly evaluate our actions and strive to align ourselves with the principles of righteousness and morality.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that abstaining from what is forbidden is an essential requirement for displaying true magnanimity and nobility of character. By adhering to the boundaries set by Allah, we demonstrate our obedience to Him and His Messenger, and we safeguard our spiritual, moral, and societal well-being. May Allah grant us the strength and guidance to uphold His commands and refrain from what is prohibited.