Hadith #3069

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) emphasizes the importance of having a sense of shame and modesty in front of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word used in the Hadith for "shame" is (الْحَيَاءُ) "al-haya", which refers to a feeling of modesty, bashfulness, and a sense of honor. It is a quality that stems from recognizing the greatness and presence of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fearing His punishment.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (7:26)

O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember

This verse highlights the importance of modesty in our outward appearance, but it also extends to our inner selves.

Modesty is not limited to our physical appearance; it encompasses our thoughts, actions, and intentions. It is a shield that protects us from falling into sinful behaviors and keeps us mindful of Allah's presence. In Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) also says, (7:201)

Indeed, those who fear Allah - when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember [Him] and at once they have insight

This verse highlights the connection between fear of Allah and the ability to resist the temptations of Satan. Modesty acts as a barrier that prevents us from succumbing to our desires and keeps us on the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that being ashamed in front of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is a means of protection from the punishment of Hell. This statement reflects the deep understanding and knowledge possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He recognizes that a sense of shame and modesty is not just a superficial virtue, but a fundamental aspect of our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

When we are truly ashamed in front of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), it motivates us to strive for righteousness and avoid sinful actions. It instills in us a sense of accountability and reminds us that our actions have consequences. This sense of shame is not rooted in fear alone, but also in love and reverence for Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We are motivated to please Him and seek His forgiveness, knowing that He is the All-Merciful and All-Forgiving.

The consequences of being ashamed in front of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) are profound. It leads to a life of piety, righteousness, and moral uprightness. It shapes our character and guides our interactions with others. Modesty becomes a defining trait of a believer, reflecting their deep connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and their commitment to His commandments.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating a sense of shame and modesty in our lives. It is not a quality that is limited to a specific gender or age group, but rather a virtue that should be embraced by all Muslims. By being conscious of our actions and intentions, and by constantly seeking Allah's guidance and forgiveness, we can protect ourselves from the punishment of Hell and strive towards attaining His pleasure.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be truly ashamed in front of Him and protect us from the punishment of Hell. May He guide us on the path of righteousness and bless us with His mercy and forgiveness. Ameen.