Hadith #8126

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, "اِسْتَغْفِرْ، تُرْزَقْ۔" This can be translated as,

Seek forgiveness and you will be provided sustenance.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (istaghfir) "اِسْتَغْفِرْ" is derived from the root word (ghafara) "غَفَرَ", which means to forgive, cover, or conceal. Seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is an act of acknowledging our shortcomings and sins, and humbly asking for His mercy and pardon. It is a means of purifying our souls and seeking His guidance and blessings.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to seek forgiveness in numerous verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:199)

And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness as a means of attaining Allah's mercy and forgiveness.

The second part of the Hadith states, (turzaq) "تُرْزَقْ۔", which means

you will be provided sustenance.

This word is derived from the root word (razaqa) "رَزَقَ", which means to provide, sustain, or nourish. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the connection between seeking forgiveness and the provision of sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us of His abundant provision for those who seek His forgiveness. In Surah At-Talaq, Allah says, (Quran 65:2-3)

And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent.

This verse highlights that seeking forgiveness and relying on Allah's provision are interconnected. When we sincerely seek forgiveness and turn to Allah in repentance, He opens doors of sustenance for us from unexpected sources. This sustenance may not only be limited to material wealth, but also includes spiritual, emotional, and intellectual nourishment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of seeking forgiveness as a means of attaining sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we seek forgiveness, we purify our hearts and strengthen our relationship with Allah. This, in turn, opens the doors of blessings and provision in all aspects of our lives.

The consequences of seeking forgiveness and being provided sustenance are manifold. Firstly, seeking forgiveness purifies our souls and brings us closer to Allah. It helps us in overcoming our weaknesses and sins, and enables us to lead a righteous and fulfilling life. Secondly, seeking forgiveness and relying on Allah's sustenance instills in us a sense of gratitude and contentment. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah and develop a deeper appreciation for His favors upon us.

Moreover, seeking forgiveness and being provided sustenance also have a positive impact on our relationships with others. When we seek forgiveness, we learn to forgive others and foster a culture of compassion and understanding. This leads to harmonious relationships and a peaceful society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the profound connection between seeking forgiveness and being provided sustenance. By seeking forgiveness, we purify our souls, strengthen our relationship with Allah, and open the doors of blessings and provision in our lives. Let us strive to seek forgiveness sincerely and regularly, and trust in Allah's infinite mercy and provision. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek forgiveness and bless us with abundant sustenance.