عَجِبْتُ لِمَنْ يَعْلَمُ أنَّ لِلأعْمالِ جَزاءً كَيْفَ لايُحْسِنُ عَمَلَهُ۔
I am amazed at the one who knows that there is reward for [good] deeds, how can he not make his actions righteous?!
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Actions And Deeds)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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) highlights the astonishment he feels towards those who possess the knowledge that good deeds are rewarded, yet fail to strive for righteousness in their actions. This Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to reflect upon the importance of aligning their deeds with the teachings of Islam.
Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ajibtu) "عَجِبْتُ" translates to "I am amazed" or "I wonder." Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his astonishment at the attitude of individuals who possess knowledge about the rewards of good deeds but fail to act righteously. The word (ya'lamu) "يَعْلَمُ" means "to know" or
to be aware of.
It emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding in guiding one's actions.
The phrase (lil-a'mali jaza'an) "لِلأعْمالِ جَزاءً" refers to the concept of rewards for deeds. It highlights the divine justice of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in granting recompense for our actions. This concept is deeply rooted in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the rewards and consequences of our deeds.
In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 16:97)
Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer - We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do.
This verse emphasizes that those who engage in righteous deeds will be rewarded with a good life in this world and a greater reward in the Hereafter.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 41:30)
Indeed, those who have said, 'Our Lord is Allah' and then remained on a right course - the angels will descend upon them, [saying], 'Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised.'
This verse highlights the glad tidings and rewards that await those who remain steadfast on the path of righteousness.
Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazement stems from the fact that despite having knowledge of the rewards for good deeds, some individuals still fail to prioritize righteousness in their actions. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their own actions and strive for righteousness in all aspects of their lives.
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight. His amazement at the lack of righteous actions despite the knowledge of rewards serves as a motivation for Muslims to align their actions with their beliefs. It encourages us to constantly evaluate our deeds and strive for excellence in our worship, interactions, and conduct.
The consequences of neglecting righteous actions are grave. Failing to act in accordance with the teachings of Islam can lead to a spiritual decline and distance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It can also result in missed opportunities for personal growth and the betterment of society. Conversely, engaging in righteous actions brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and leads to a life of fulfillment and contentment.
Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should strive to make their actions righteous in all aspects of their lives. Whether it is in acts of worship, dealings with others, or personal conduct, we should always seek to align our actions with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can attain the rewards promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and lead a life of purpose and righteousness.
May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and motivation to make our actions righteous and may He reward us abundantly for our efforts. And Allah knows best.
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