Hadith #2044

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 consequences and implications of fleeing from the battlefield. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound statement and explore its significance in the light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are as follows:

1. (fleeing) "فِي الفِرارِ": This refers to the act of running away or retreating from the battlefield. It signifies abandoning one's duty and responsibility in the face of danger.

2. (the wrath of Allah, the Glorified) "مَوْجِدَةَ اللّهِ سُبْحانَهُ": This phrase emphasizes the displeasure and anger of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) towards those who flee from the battlefield. It highlights the divine punishment that awaits those who abandon their fellow Muslims in times of need.

3. (persistent disgrace) "الذُّلَّ اللاّزِمَ": This phrase signifies the everlasting shame and humiliation that befalls those who choose to flee. It highlights the loss of honor and dignity that accompanies such an act.

4. (lasting shame) "العارَ الدّائِمَ": This phrase further emphasizes the perpetual disgrace and dishonor that will remain with the one who flees. It serves as a reminder that the consequences of fleeing are not temporary, but rather, they have a lasting impact on one's reputation.

5. (certainly one who flees does not prolong his life, nor does he delay his day [of death])

وإنَّ الفارَّ غَيْرُ مَزيد في عُمْرِهِ، ولا مُؤَخِّرٌ عَنْ يَوْمِهِ

: This phrase highlights the futility of fleeing from the battlefield. It reminds us that running away does not grant one a longer life or delay the appointed time of death. Instead, it brings about spiritual and moral decay.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:15-16):

O you who have believed, when you meet those who disbelieve advancing [for battle], do not turn to them your backs [in flight]. And whoever turns his back to them on such a day, unless swerving [as a strategy] for war or joining [another] company, has certainly returned with anger [upon him] from Allah, and his refuge is Hell - and wretched is the destination.

This Quranic verse emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the face of the enemy and not fleeing from the battlefield. It warns of the severe consequences that await those who turn their backs on their fellow Muslims during times of conflict. The wrath of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is mentioned as a punishment for such actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:140), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

If a wound should touch you - there has already touched the [opposing] people a wound similar to it. And these days [of varying conditions] We alternate among the people so that Allah may make evident those who believe and [may] take to Himself from among you martyrs - and Allah does not like the wrongdoers.

This verse reminds us that hardships and trials are a part of life, and they serve as a test to distinguish the true believers from the wrongdoers. It emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast and not fleeing from the challenges that we face. By enduring and sacrificing for the sake of Allah, we have the opportunity to attain martyrdom and earn His pleasure.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we can understand that fleeing from the battlefield is not only a physical act but also a reflection of one's character and faith. It is a manifestation of cowardice, lack of trust in Allah's plan, and a betrayal of the Muslim community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and bravery, reminds us of the consequences of fleeing. He highlights the divine punishment, the everlasting disgrace, and the futility of such an act. By staying firm and facing challenges head-on, we demonstrate our commitment to Islam, our trust in Allah's plan, and our dedication to the well-being of the Muslim ummah.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and courage to face adversity with steadfastness and to always remain firm in our faith. May He protect us from the temptations of fleeing and guide us on the path of righteousness. Ameen.