Hadith #5958

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

قد وضَحَتْ مَحَجَّةُ الحَقِّ لِطُلاّبِها۔

This can be translated as:

Indeed, the highway of truth has been made manifest for those who seek it.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (mahajjah) "مَحَجَّةُ" in this Hadith refers to a highway or a clear path. It signifies a well-defined and easily recognizable route that leads to the truth. This path is not hidden or obscure, but rather it is open and accessible to those who sincerely seek it.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of seeking the truth and following the right path. In Surah Al-Fatihah, Allah guides us to ask for the straight path in our prayers: (Quran 1:6)

Guide us to the straight path

This verse highlights the significance of seeking the truth and being guided by Allah towards it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states: (Quran 2:186)

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me [by obedience] and believe in Me that they may be [rightly] guided

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and responding to His call. It is through this seeking and response that one can be rightly guided on the path of truth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the accessibility of the highway of truth to those who actively seek it. It is not a hidden or elusive path, but rather it is clear and evident for those who are sincere in their quest for knowledge and understanding.

When we reflect on this Hadith, we realize that seeking the truth requires effort and determination. It is not a passive endeavor, but an active pursuit. Just as a traveler embarks on a journey with a clear destination in mind, a seeker of truth must have a sincere intention and a strong desire to find the truth.

Moreover, this Hadith also emphasizes the importance of knowledge and seeking knowledge. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom. He was a beacon of guidance for the Muslim Ummah, and his teachings continue to inspire and enlighten us today. By highlighting the highway of truth, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to seek knowledge and to strive for a deeper understanding of the truth.

The consequences of seeking the highway of truth are profound. When we actively seek the truth and follow the right path, we align ourselves with the divine will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We become closer to Him and experience a sense of peace and fulfillment in our lives. Moreover, seeking the truth enables us to make informed decisions, to distinguish between right and wrong, and to live a life of righteousness and integrity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the highway of truth is open and accessible to those who sincerely seek it. It emphasizes the importance of actively seeking knowledge and understanding, and the profound consequences of aligning ourselves with the truth. As Muslims, it is our duty to embark on this journey of seeking the truth, and to continuously strive for a deeper understanding of our faith. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the straight path and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.