Hadith #10919

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

مِنْ لَوازِمِ الوَرَعِ التَّنَزُّهُ عَنِ الآثامِ۔

This can be translated as:

One of the prerequisites of piety is refraining from sins.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. (lawazim) "لَوازِمِ" refers to the prerequisites or essential components of something. (al-wara') "الوَرَعِ" is often translated as piety or righteousness, but it encompasses a deeper meaning. It refers to a state of being cautious and abstaining from anything that may displease Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a comprehensive term that encompasses all aspects of a person's life, including their thoughts, words, and actions. (at-tanzuhu) "التَّنَزُّهُ" means to refrain or abstain from something, in this case, sins. (al-atham) "الآثامِ" refers to sins or transgressions.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 197:

Hajj is [during] well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by entering the state of ihram], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no disputing during Hajj.

This ayah highlights the importance of refraining from sins during the sacred act of Hajj, which is a manifestation of piety.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, Ayah 135, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by transgression], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins - and who can forgive sins except Allah? - and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.

This ayah emphasizes the significance of seeking forgiveness and refraining from persisting in sins after committing them. It is a manifestation of piety to turn to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in repentance and strive to avoid repeating the same mistakes.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the essential nature of refraining from sins as a prerequisite for piety. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that true piety is not merely performing acts of worship, but also involves actively avoiding sinful behavior. Piety is a state of consciousness and mindfulness, where one constantly strives to align their actions with the teachings of Islam.

By refraining from sins, a person safeguards their soul from the spiritual harm caused by transgressions. This leads to a purer heart, a clearer mind, and a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also cultivates a sense of self-discipline and self-control, which are essential qualities for a believer.

Moreover, refraining from sins has broader implications for society. When individuals abstain from sinful behavior, they contribute to the creation of a virtuous and righteous community. It fosters an environment where justice, compassion, and integrity prevail. This, in turn, leads to a harmonious society that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of refraining from sins as a prerequisite for piety. It calls upon Muslims to be cautious and mindful of their actions, thoughts, and words, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, individuals not only purify their souls but also contribute to the creation of a virtuous society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to refrain from sins and attain true piety.