Hadith #8670

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his companions.

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

مَنْ ساءَ مَقْصَدُهُ ساءَ مَوْرِدُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose goal is evil, his place of arrival [in the Hereafter] will be bad.

In order to understand the significance behind this statement, let us delve into the key words and concepts present in this Hadith.

The word (maqsaduhu) "مَقْصَدُهُ" refers to one's goal or intention. It signifies the purpose or objective that a person sets for themselves. It is important to note that our intentions shape our actions and ultimately determine the outcome of our deeds. If our intentions are pure and righteous, our actions will reflect that and lead us towards goodness. Conversely, if our intentions are evil or corrupt, our actions will follow suit and lead us towards a negative outcome.

The word (saa) "ساءَ" means evil or bad. It signifies something that is morally wrong, harmful, or detrimental. It is the opposite of goodness and righteousness. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to the intention or goal that is rooted in evil or wickedness.

The word (mawriduhu) "مَوْرِدُهُ" refers to the place of arrival or destination. It symbolizes the ultimate outcome or consequence of one's actions and intentions. Just as a traveler reaches their destination after a journey, our actions and intentions will lead us to a specific place in the Hereafter. If our intentions are evil, our place of arrival in the Hereafter will be bad, indicating a negative and undesirable outcome.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of intentions in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 98:5)

And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakah. And that is the correct religion.

This verse highlights the importance of sincerity in worship, emphasizing that our intentions should be solely directed towards pleasing Allah and seeking His pleasure.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah says, (Quran 40:28)

Indeed, Allah does not guide one who is a transgressor and a liar.

This verse reminds us that if our intentions are rooted in transgression and falsehood, Allah will not guide us towards the right path. It serves as a warning against evil intentions and their consequences.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that our intentions play a crucial role in determining the outcome of our actions. If our goal is evil, if our intentions are corrupt, then the consequences of our actions will be negative and undesirable. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims to constantly examine their intentions and ensure that they are aligned with the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight. Through this Hadith, he emphasizes the importance of having righteous intentions and striving towards goodness in all aspects of life. It serves as a motivation for Muslims to purify their intentions, seek the pleasure of Allah, and strive for a positive outcome in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that our intentions shape our actions and ultimately determine the consequences we face in the Hereafter. If our intentions are evil, our place of arrival will be bad. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us as Muslims to constantly evaluate our intentions, seek righteousness, and strive towards goodness in order to attain a positive outcome in the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all to have pure and righteous intentions in all our endeavors.