Hadith #1580

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

طَلَبُ التَّعاوُنِ على نُصْرَةِ الباطِلِ جنِايَةٌ وخيانَةٌ۔

This can be translated as,

Seeking assistance in support of falsehood is a serious offence and an act of treachery.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us delve into the important words used. The word (talabu) "طَلَبُ" means seeking or asking for something. (ta'awuni) "التَّعاوُنِ" refers to assistance or cooperation. (nusrati) "نُصْرَةِ" means support or help. (al-batil) "الباطِلِ" signifies falsehood or that which is devoid of truth. Finally, (jinayatun) "جنِايَةٌ" means a serious offence or sin, and (khayanatun) "خيانَةٌ" refers to treachery or betrayal.

In light of the Quran, we find several verses that emphasize the importance of seeking assistance and support in the cause of truth and justice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2),

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse clearly highlights the importance of seeking assistance in matters that are righteous and just, while refraining from supporting falsehood and aggression.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:72), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, those who have believed and emigrated and fought with their wealth and lives in the cause of Allah and those who gave shelter and aided - they are allies of one another.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking assistance from believers who are committed to the cause of Allah, as they are true allies and supporters.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. Seeking assistance in support of falsehood is not only a serious offense but also an act of treachery. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that we should always align ourselves with the truth and justice, and never compromise our principles by supporting falsehood.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight and significance. By highlighting the gravity of seeking assistance in support of falsehood, he reminds us of the importance of integrity and staying true to our values.

When we seek assistance in the cause of falsehood, we contribute to the perpetuation of injustice and deception. This not only harms others but also tarnishes our own character and undermines our credibility as Muslims. It is essential for us to be vigilant and discerning in our choices, ensuring that we align ourselves with the truth and support causes that are just and righteous.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to seek assistance and support only in matters that are truthful and just. By doing so, we uphold our integrity and contribute to the establishment of a just society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always seek the truth and avoid any form of treachery or support for falsehood.