Hadith #11124

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of the fear of Allah (تَقْوَى اللّهِ) in the life of a believer. Let us delve into the exegesis of this enlightening Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. (تَقْوَى) "Taqwa" refers to the consciousness and fear of Allah, which leads to righteous actions and the avoidance of sins. It is the foundation upon which faith is built and is essential for the believer's spiritual growth and development. (إِيمَان) "Iman" refers to faith, while (يَقِين) "yaqeen" denotes certitude or absolute conviction. These terms emphasize the importance of having a strong and unwavering belief in Allah and His guidance.

The Hadith states that taqwa is the "maintainer of faith" and the "pillar of certitude." This means that the fear of Allah is what sustains and strengthens our faith, preventing it from wavering or weakening. It serves as a solid foundation upon which our belief in Allah and His teachings is firmly established. The fear of Allah also instills in us a deep sense of conviction and certainty, enabling us to navigate through the challenges and uncertainties of life with unwavering faith.

To further understand the significance of taqwa, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:102)

O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him]

This verse emphasizes the importance of having a genuine and sincere fear of Allah, which is essential for the preservation of our faith until the end of our lives.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted

This verse highlights that righteousness, which is attained through taqwa, is the criterion by which Allah distinguishes between His servants. It is through taqwa that one attains true success and honor in the sight of Allah.

The Hadith also mentions that taqwa is the "key to righteousness" and the "lamp of success." This signifies that taqwa is not only the foundation of righteousness but also the means through which one achieves success in this world and the Hereafter. Taqwa serves as a guiding light that illuminates our path, enabling us to make choices that are pleasing to Allah and beneficial for our own well-being.

To further understand the concept of taqwa as the key to righteousness and success, we can turn to Surah Al-Baqarah, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:197)

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding

This verse highlights that taqwa is the most valuable provision for our journey in this world. It is through taqwa that we are able to make righteous choices and fulfill our responsibilities towards Allah and His creation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the profound importance of taqwa in the life of a believer. Taqwa serves as the maintainer of faith and the pillar of certitude, enabling us to strengthen our belief in Allah and navigate through the challenges of life with unwavering conviction. It is the key to righteousness and the lamp of success, guiding us towards actions that are pleasing to Allah and leading us to ultimate success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to cultivate and strengthen our taqwa, and may He bless us with righteousness and success.