Hadith #1034

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of enjoining good and forbidding evil. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The Arabic word (maslahah) "مَصْلَحَةً" in the Hadith refers to reformation or benefit. It implies that enjoining good is a means of bringing about positive change and improvement in society. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of promoting righteousness and virtue.

Allah says in Surah Al-Asr (103:3),

And enjoin upon one another [the practice of] truthfulness and enjoin upon one another [the practice of] patience.

This verse highlights the obligation of Muslims to encourage and promote truthfulness and patience among themselves. By doing so, they contribute to the betterment of society and the well-being of individuals.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Hajj (22:41), Allah commands us,

Those who, if We give them authority in the land, establish prayer and give zakah and enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong.

This verse emphasizes that those who are given authority should not only establish prayer and give zakah but also enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong. This duty is not limited to the rulers but extends to every individual in their respective capacities.

The Arabic word (rad'an) "رَدْعًا" in the Hadith means a restriction or deterrent. It suggests that forbidding evil serves as a means to prevent wrongdoing and restrain the insolent. This concept is also supported by the Quranic teachings.

In Surah Al-Imran (3:104), Allah says,

And let there be [arising] from you a nation inviting to [all that is] good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong.

This verse highlights the responsibility of Muslims to be a community that actively invites others towards goodness, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong. By doing so, they act as a deterrent against evil and contribute to the establishment of a righteous society.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:63), Allah addresses the Children of Israel, saying,

Why do the rabbis and religious scholars not forbid them from saying what is sinful and devouring what is unlawful?

This verse highlights the failure of the religious scholars of the Children of Israel in fulfilling their duty of forbidding evil. It serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of actively discouraging sinful behavior and unlawful actions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that enjoining good and forbidding evil are not only acts of individual piety but also essential for the betterment of society. By promoting righteousness and preventing wrongdoing, we contribute to the establishment of a just and virtuous community.

Enjoining good and forbidding evil can take various forms, such as advising, educating, and speaking out against injustice. It requires knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, exemplified these qualities in his actions and teachings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of enjoining good and forbidding evil as a means of reformation and restriction. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the obligation of Muslims to promote righteousness and prevent wrongdoing. By fulfilling this duty, we contribute to the betterment of society and the establishment of a just and virtuous community. May Allah guide us all to fulfill this responsibility and grant us success in our efforts.