Hadith #5443

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to turn away from their lustful desires. The Arabic word (uhjuroo) "أُهْجُرُوا" means to turn away or to abandon, while (ash-shahawat) "الشَّهَواتِ" refers to lustful desires. These desires can manifest in various forms, such as greed, gluttony, sexual desires, and excessive worldly attachments.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the consequences of succumbing to these lustful desires. He states that they lead us towards committing sinful acts, which are actions that go against the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). These desires can cloud our judgment and push us towards engaging in actions that are displeasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the importance of turning away from lustful desires, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Yusuf (12:53),

And I do not acquit myself. Indeed, the soul is a persistent enjoiner of evil, except those upon which my Lord has mercy. Indeed, my Lord is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the inherent inclination of the human soul towards evil desires. It is only through the mercy of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) that we can overcome these temptations.

Another verse that emphasizes the importance of controlling our desires is found in Surah An-Naziat (79:40-41), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But as for he who feared the position of his Lord and prevented the soul from [unlawful] inclination, then indeed, Paradise will be [his] refuge.

This verse highlights the reward for those who restrain their souls from indulging in unlawful desires. Paradise becomes their ultimate abode.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice serves as a reminder for Muslims to be vigilant in controlling their desires. By turning away from lustful desires, we safeguard ourselves from falling into sinful acts and engaging in evil deeds. This requires self-discipline, self-control, and a deep understanding of the consequences of our actions.

For example, if one is tempted by the desire for wealth and material possessions, they may resort to dishonest means such as theft or fraud to fulfill their desires. However, by turning away from this lustful desire, one can strive to earn a halal income through lawful means and avoid the pitfalls of sinful acts.

Similarly, if one is consumed by their sexual desires, they may engage in illicit relationships or engage in pornography. However, by turning away from these lustful desires, one can strive to maintain chastity, purity, and adhere to the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in regards to relationships and modesty.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of turning away from lustful desires. By doing so, we protect ourselves from falling into sinful acts and engaging in evil deeds. This requires self-discipline, self-control, and a deep understanding of the consequences of our actions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to overcome our desires and guide us on the path of righteousness.