Hadith #10421

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-control and seeking guidance from the Quran in two specific situations: when faced with lustful desires and when faced with doubts. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this profound Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to

turn our soul away

when confronted with lustful desires. This highlights the need for self-restraint and self-discipline in order to protect ourselves from falling into sinful actions. The Arabic word used here is "shahawat" which refers to strong and intense desires, particularly those of a sensual nature.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of controlling our desires and urges. In Surah Al-Nisa, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against following our desires blindly, saying, (Quran 11:113)

And do not follow the inclinations of those who have wronged, lest you be subject to the Fire, and you would not have other than Allah any protectors; then you would not be helped

This verse reminds us of the consequences of succumbing to our desires without considering the guidance of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further advises us to

make our soul steadfast on the book of Allah

when faced with doubts. This implies that when we encounter uncertainties or doubts in matters of faith or morality, we should seek guidance from the Quran. The Arabic word used here is "shubuhat" which refers to doubts or ambiguities.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and guidance from the Quran. In Surah Al-Nahl, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 16:43)

So ask the people of the message if you do not know

This verse encourages us to seek knowledge and clarification from those who possess knowledge of the Quran and its teachings. By turning to the Quran, we can find answers to our doubts and uncertainties.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith is of great significance. By turning away from our lustful desires and seeking guidance from the Quran, we can protect ourselves from falling into sin and make informed decisions based on the teachings of Allah. This practice of self-control and seeking guidance from the Quran leads to a more righteous and fulfilling life.

For example, when faced with the temptation of engaging in illicit relationships, we can turn our soul away by reminding ourselves of the severe consequences and the displeasure of Allah. We can also seek guidance from the Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of modesty and chastity, such as Surah Al-Noor (Quran 24:30-31).

Similarly, when faced with doubts about certain beliefs or practices, we can make our soul steadfast on the book of Allah by studying the Quran and seeking clarification from scholars who possess knowledge of the Quranic teachings. By doing so, we can strengthen our faith and overcome any uncertainties that may arise.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to exercise self-control and seek guidance from the Quran in moments of temptation and doubt. By turning away from lustful desires and making our souls steadfast on the book of Allah, we can lead a righteous and fulfilling life, in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to follow the guidance of the Quran and protect us from the temptations of this world.