Hadith #1550

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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) highlights an important aspect of human nature and offers guidance on how to control our desires and maintain the sanctity of our relationships. Let us delve into the exegesis of this hadith, exploring its key words and their meanings in light of the Quran.

The first word to analyze is (absar) "أبصار", which translates to "eyes." The eyes are the windows to the soul and play a significant role in human perception and attraction. They have the power to captivate and arouse desire. The second word is (fuhool) "فحول", which refers to "virile males" or "men of strength." This term emphasizes the natural inclination of men towards attraction and desire.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes the glancing of these men as the (sababu hababiha) "سَبَبُ هَبابِها", meaning the cause of their lust. This phrase highlights the connection between the act of looking and the subsequent arousal of desire. It serves as a reminder that the initial glance can lead to a chain reaction of thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to control.

To address this issue, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises that when a person finds themselves attracted to someone, they should (limussa ahlahu) "لْيَمُسَّ أهْلَهُ", meaning they should go to their spouse. This phrase emphasizes the importance of redirecting one's desires towards their lawful partner. By doing so, one can fulfill their natural inclinations within the bounds of a sacred and committed relationship.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further clarifies this point by stating, (fa innama hiya imra'atun bimra'ah)

فإنَّما هيَ امْرأةٌ بِامْرَأة

which translates to

she [too] is a woman like her.

This statement highlights the equality of women and reminds us that the attraction we feel towards others is not unique or exclusive. Our spouses possess the same qualities and deserve our attention and affection.

This profound advice from Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining chastity and guarding one's gaze. In Surah An-Nur, Allah says, (Quran 24:30)

Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do

This verse highlights the responsibility of men to lower their gaze and control their desires. By doing so, they can protect their own purity and maintain the sanctity of their relationships. Similarly, in Surah Al-Ahzab, Allah addresses the wives of the Prophet (ﷺ) and instructs them to (Quran 33:33)

not display their beauty except to their husbands

This verse emphasizes the exclusivity of physical attraction within the boundaries of marriage.

Reflecting on the exegesis of this hadith, we can understand the profound wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He teaches us the importance of redirecting our desires towards our lawful partners, reminding us of the equality and beauty that exists within our own relationships. By following his advice, we can maintain purity, strengthen our marriages, and protect ourselves from the harmful consequences of unchecked desires.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to control our desires and maintain the sanctity of our relationships. May He bless us with understanding and adherence to the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Ameen.