Hadith #6549

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

قَلَّ مَنْ عَجِلَ إلاّ هَلَكَ۔

This can be translated into English as,

Few are the ones who make haste and are not ruined by it.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ajila) "عَجِلَ" in this Hadith refers to hastiness or impatience. It implies rushing into actions without proper consideration or reflection. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that those who act hastily are bound to face ruin or destruction. To understand the wisdom behind this statement, let us turn to the Quran for guidance.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of patience and deliberation in various verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:153)

O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

Here, Allah encourages us to seek assistance through patience, indicating that hasty actions can lead to unfavorable outcomes.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah reminds us, (Quran 17:37)

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse advises against arrogance and hastiness, highlighting the futility of rushing through life without considering the consequences.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to exercise caution and thoughtfulness in their actions. It urges us to reflect upon the potential outcomes of our decisions before rushing into them. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls and destruction that often accompany hasty choices.

For instance, when it comes to matters of faith, we should not hastily adopt beliefs or practices without thoroughly studying and understanding them. Islam encourages seeking knowledge and understanding, as Allah says in Surah Muhammad, (Quran 47:19)

So know, [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women.

This verse emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding in matters of faith.

Similarly, in our personal and professional lives, we should exercise patience and deliberation. Making impulsive decisions without considering the consequences can lead to regret and ruin. Allah advises us in Surah Al-Imran, (Quran 3:159)

And consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

This verse encourages seeking counsel and taking time to make informed decisions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazing Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to avoid hastiness and impatience. By reflecting on the potential consequences of our actions and seeking guidance from the Quran, we can make wise and informed choices that lead to success and fulfillment in this life and the hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to avoid hastiness and the patience to make thoughtful decisions. May we always seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in all aspects of our lives.