Hadith #10472

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

لَيْسَ مَنْ أساءَ إلى نَفْسِهِ بِذي مَأْمُول۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of treating oneself with kindness and avoiding actions that harm one's own soul. Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (asa'a) "أساءَ" in this Hadith refers to committing acts of wrongdoing or causing harm. It encompasses actions that are detrimental to one's physical, emotional, or spiritual well-being. The word (nafsihi) "نَفْسِهِ" refers to one's own soul or self. It signifies the individual responsibility each person has towards their own well-being.

This Hadith reminds us that there is no expectation of goodness or positive outcomes for the one who wrongs their own soul. It serves as a reminder that self-destructive behavior and actions that go against our own best interests will not lead to any positive outcomes or blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:29)

And do not kill yourselves [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is to you ever Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of self-harm and the sanctity of life. It reminds us that harming oneself is a grave sin and goes against the mercy and compassion of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 17:36)

And do not follow that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and making informed decisions. It reminds us that harming ourselves through ignorance or following baseless desires is not in line with the teachings of Islam.

The exegesis of this Hadith urges us to reflect on our actions and their consequences. When we engage in self-destructive behavior, we harm ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually. For example, indulging in harmful addictions such as substance abuse or engaging in unhealthy relationships can lead to physical ailments, emotional distress, and a weakened connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to prioritize self-care and self-improvement. By taking care of our physical health, nurturing our emotional well-being, and seeking knowledge to enhance our spiritual growth, we can strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strive towards righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith that our actions have consequences, not only in this world but also in the hereafter. It serves as a call to self-reflection and self-accountability. We must strive to avoid actions that harm our own souls and instead seek goodness, righteousness, and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of treating ourselves with kindness and avoiding actions that harm our own souls. It reminds us that self-destructive behavior leads to negative consequences and deprives us of the blessings and mercy of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By prioritizing self-care, seeking knowledge, and striving towards righteousness, we can strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and lead a fulfilling and purposeful life as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from harming our own souls.