Hadith #8621

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.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of the Quran. In this profound hadith, Imam Ali beautifully describes the nature of the Quran and its immense significance in guiding humanity towards the light of truth.

The Imam begins by stating that the outer aspect of the Quran is elegant (ظاهِرُهُ أنيقٌ). This refers to the eloquence, beauty, and clarity of the Quranic verses. The Quran is a masterpiece of divine literature, with its words and phrases carefully chosen to convey profound meanings. Its eloquence captivates the hearts and minds of those who recite and reflect upon its verses.

Imam Ali then highlights the inner aspect of the Quran, stating that it is profound (باطِنُهُ عَمِيقٌ). The depth of the Quran lies in its hidden meanings, layers of wisdom, and spiritual insights. The Quran is not merely a book of rules and regulations, but a comprehensive guide that addresses the intellectual, moral, and spiritual dimensions of human existence. Its depths are endless, and its wisdom is boundless.

To emphasize the everlasting nature of the Quran's marvels and wonders, Imam Ali states that they do not end (لاتَفْنى عَجائِبُهُ) and do not cease (ولاتَنْقَضي غَرائِبُهُ). The Quran is a divine miracle that continues to astonish and amaze humanity throughout the ages. Its timeless relevance and ability to address the diverse challenges of every era are a testament to its miraculous nature.

Furthermore, Imam Ali asserts that the darkness of ignorance and misguidance cannot be removed except through the Quran (ولا تُكْشَفُ الظُّلُماتُ إلاّ بِهِ). The Quran is the ultimate source of guidance and enlightenment. It dispels the darkness of ignorance, superstition, and falsehood, illuminating the path towards truth, righteousness, and spiritual enlightenment.

To support this amazing Hadith, let us turn to the Quran itself. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ibrahim (14:1),

Alif, Lam, Ra. [This is] a Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that you might bring mankind out of darknesses into the light by permission of their Lord - to the path of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy.

Here, Allah explicitly states that the purpose of revealing the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is to guide humanity out of darknesses (plural) into the light. The darknesses mentioned here refer to the darkness of ignorance, disbelief, and moral corruption. The Quran, with its profound teachings and divine guidance, serves as the ultimate source of illumination, leading humanity towards the path of Allah, the Exalted in Might.

Another verse that supports the significance of the Quran in removing darkness is found in Surah Ibrahim (14:5), where Allah says,

And We certainly sent Moses with Our signs, [saying], 'Bring out your people from darknesses into the light and remind them of the days of Allah.' Indeed in that are signs for everyone patient and grateful.

In this verse, Allah reminds us of the mission of Prophet Moses (Musa) to guide the Children of Israel out of darknesses into the light. The Quran, like the previous scriptures, serves as a beacon of light, reminding humanity of the days of Allah and calling them to the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali's amazing Hadith highlights the eternal nature of the Quran's marvels and wonders, its ability to remove darkness and ignorance, and its profound impact on the hearts and minds of believers. As Muslims, it is our duty to engage with the Quran, to study its verses, reflect upon its meanings, and implement its teachings in our lives. By doing so, we can experience the elegance and profundity of the Quran and allow it to guide us towards the path of truth and righteousness. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with a deep understanding of the Quran and enable us to benefit from its timeless wisdom.