Hadith #7645

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "أشْرَفُ الأعْمالِ اَلطّاعَةُ۔" This can be translated as,

The most honourable action is obedience [to Allah].

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (ashrafu) "أشْرَفُ" means the most noble, honorable, or superior. It signifies an action that holds the highest rank in terms of virtue and righteousness. The word (al-a'mal) "الأعْمالِ" refers to actions or deeds, and (at-ta'ah) "اَلطّاعَةُ" means obedience.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of obedience to Allah in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83), Allah says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the significance of obedience to Allah by mentioning the covenant made with the Children of Israel. It emphasizes the importance of worshiping Allah alone, being kind to parents and relatives, helping the needy, speaking good words, establishing prayer, and giving zakah. By obeying these commands, one fulfills their obligations and attains honor in the sight of Allah.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:187), where Allah says,

It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them. Allah knows that you used to deceive yourselves, so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now, have relations with them and seek that which Allah has decreed for you. And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until the night. And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques. These are the limits [set by] Allah, so do not approach them. Thus does Allah make clear His ordinances to the people that they may become righteous.

This verse highlights the importance of obedience to Allah's commands, even in matters of intimacy and fasting. It teaches us that obedience to Allah's decrees brings about righteousness and honor. By adhering to the limits set by Allah, one demonstrates their submission and devotion to Him.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The most honorable action a Muslim can engage in is obedience to Allah. This encompasses fulfilling the obligations prescribed by Allah, such as performing the five daily prayers, giving zakah, observing fasting during Ramadan, and performing the pilgrimage to Mecca if able. It also includes abstaining from prohibited actions, such as lying, backbiting, and engaging in unlawful transactions.

Obedience to Allah is not limited to ritualistic acts; it extends to all aspects of life. It entails treating others with kindness, being honest in our dealings, and fulfilling our responsibilities towards our families, communities, and society at large. It means striving to embody the values of justice, compassion, and mercy in our interactions with others.

The consequences of obedience to Allah are manifold. Firstly, it leads to the purification of the soul and the attainment of spiritual growth. By aligning our actions with the divine will, we cultivate a deep connection with Allah and increase in piety. Secondly, obedience to Allah brings about harmony and righteousness in society. When individuals strive to fulfill their obligations and treat others with respect and compassion, it creates an environment of justice and peace.

Moreover, obedience to Allah serves as a means of attaining success in this world and the hereafter. Allah promises His blessings and rewards to those who obey Him. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:25), Allah says,

But give good tidings to those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have gardens [in Paradise] beneath which rivers flow. Whenever they are provided with a provision of fruit therefrom, they will say, 'This is what we were provided with before.' And it is given to them in likeness. And they will have therein purified spouses, and they will abide therein eternally.

This verse highlights the eternal rewards that await those who believe and engage in righteous deeds. By obeying Allah, Muslims strive for the ultimate success and everlasting bliss in the hereafter.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the significance of obedience to Allah as the most honorable action. This obedience encompasses fulfilling the obligations prescribed by Allah and abstaining from prohibited actions. By obeying Allah, Muslims purify their souls, contribute to the betterment of society, and strive for success in this world and the hereafter. May Allah guide us all to be obedient servants and grant us the honor of His pleasure.