Hadith #11036

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he emphasizes the importance of comprehending and accepting admonitions. The word (fitnah) "فِطْنَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the comprehension and acceptance of admonitions. It is derived from the root word (fatana) "فَتَنَ", which means to test or to examine. Here, it signifies the ability to understand and internalize the lessons and warnings that are conveyed.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that this comprehension of admonitions invites one to caution. It serves as a reminder to be vigilant and mindful of our actions, choices, and decisions. By reflecting upon the lessons learned from the past, we can avoid repeating mistakes and make informed choices. The phrase (wa'atbiru bilghiyar) "واعْتَبِرُوا بِالغِيَرِ" urges us to take lessons from the sudden changes in circumstances. It encourages us to observe the consequences of others' actions and learn from them, so that we may avoid similar pitfalls.

To further emphasize the significance of this comprehension, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to take benefit from the Warners. This refers to individuals or events that serve as reminders and warnings of potential dangers or consequences. By paying attention to these warnings and heeding their advice, we can protect ourselves from harm and make wise choices.

The exegesis of this Hadith can be supported by several Quranic verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of learning from the past and taking heed of admonitions. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:2), Allah says,

He is Allah, other than whom there is no deity, Knower of the unseen and the witnessed. He is the Most Merciful, the Especially Merciful.

This verse highlights Allah's knowledge of both the seen and unseen, indicating that He knows the consequences of our actions and provides guidance through admonitions.

In Surah Al-A'raf (7:94), Allah recounts the story of the people of Thamud and how they rejected the warnings of their prophet, Saleh (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The verse states,

And We sent to Thamud their brother Saleh, [saying], 'Worship Allah,' and at once they were two parties conflicting.

This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences that befell the people of Thamud due to their refusal to accept admonitions and heed the warnings of their prophet.

Another relevant verse is found in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), where Allah says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of taking lessons from the behavior of others, even if they are not from our own community or share our beliefs. It encourages us to learn from their righteousness and just actions.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that comprehending and accepting admonitions is a crucial aspect of our spiritual growth and development. By learning from the past, observing the consequences of others' actions, and heeding the warnings around us, we can make informed choices and protect ourselves from harm. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be vigilant, reflective, and receptive to the lessons and warnings that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) provides us with. May Allah guide us all to comprehend and accept admonitions, and may He grant us the wisdom to benefit from the lessons and warnings that come our way.