Hadith #1845

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) states,

Indeed the best Jihād is the struggle of a man against his [carnal] soul.

This Hadith emphasizes the significance of self-struggle or self-discipline as the most superior form of Jihad. To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the words used and their implications.

The word "Jihād" in Arabic refers to striving or exerting effort in the path of Allah. It encompasses various forms of struggle, including physical, intellectual, and spiritual endeavors. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) specifically highlights the struggle against one's own self or ego, which is often the most challenging battle one faces.

The term "nafs" in Arabic refers to the self or the ego. It represents the inner desires and inclinations that can lead a person astray from the path of righteousness. The struggle against the nafs involves resisting temptations, controlling one's desires, and striving to align one's actions with the teachings of Islam.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:216),

Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse highlights the struggle and sacrifice involved in physical Jihad. However, it also suggests that the struggle against one's own desires and inclinations is of utmost importance.

In Surah Al-Asr (103:2-3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss.

This verse indicates that human beings are inherently prone to fall into a state of loss and destruction. The struggle against the nafs is a means to overcome this inherent weakness and attain salvation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:56), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, [O Muhammad], you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse reminds us that true guidance and success come from Allah alone. By struggling against our own selves, we humble ourselves before Allah and seek His guidance and mercy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-struggle because it is through this internal battle that one can purify their intentions, strengthen their faith, and attain spiritual growth. By restraining our desires and aligning our actions with the teachings of Islam, we strive to become better Muslims and fulfill our purpose in life.

The consequences of neglecting this struggle are grave. If we allow our desires and ego to dominate us, we risk straying from the path of righteousness and falling into sin. This can lead to spiritual stagnation, distance from Allah, and ultimately, loss in the Hereafter. On the other hand, if we actively engage in self-struggle, we can attain a higher level of spirituality, nearness to Allah, and ultimately, success in both this world and the Hereafter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that it is not only relevant to the time of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), but it holds immense significance for Muslims of all times. In our modern world, where distractions and temptations are abundant, the struggle against the nafs becomes even more crucial. It requires constant vigilance, self-reflection, and self-discipline to resist the allure of materialism, ego, and sinful desires.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of self-struggle as the most superior form of Jihad. By striving against our own selves, we purify our intentions, strengthen our faith, and attain spiritual growth. This struggle is a lifelong journey that requires constant effort, but its rewards are immense. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to engage in this noble struggle and attain success in this world and the Hereafter.