Hadith #4894

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

لا رَزِيَّةَ أعْظَمُ مِنْ دَوامِ سُقْمِ الجَسَدِ۔

This statement highlights the immense significance of enduring a continuous physical ailment. To fully comprehend the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word (razīyah) "رَزِيَّةَ" refers to affliction, hardship, or distress. It encompasses any form of suffering that one may face in their life. It is a state of being overwhelmed by difficulties and challenges. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that there is no affliction greater than the one that persists and remains constant.

The term (dawām) "دَوامِ" signifies continuity or permanence. It implies that the affliction being referred to is not temporary or sporadic, but rather a constant presence in one's life. It is an ailment that persists and does not subside, causing ongoing distress and hardship.

Lastly, (suqmi al-jasad) "سُقْمِ الجَسَدِ" translates to physical ailment or illness. It specifically refers to the suffering and pain experienced in the body. This could include various diseases, disabilities, or chronic conditions that affect the physical well-being of an individual.

To understand the beautiful message behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 286, (Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear)

لَا يُكَلِّفُ ٱللَّهُ نَفْسًا إِلَّا وُسْعَهَا

This verse assures us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not place upon us a burden that is beyond our capacity to endure. Therefore, when Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that there is no affliction greater than a continuous physical ailment, it emphasizes the immense difficulty and hardship that one may face in such circumstances.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us the importance of patience and perseverance in times of affliction. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient)

وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُم بِشَيْءٍ مِّنَ ٱلْخَوْفِ وَٱلْجُوعِ وَنَقْصٍ مِّنَ ٱلْأَمْوَالِ وَٱلْأَنفُسِ وَٱلثَّمَرَاتِ ۗ وَبَشِّرِ ٱلصَّابِرِينَ

This verse reminds us that trials and tribulations are a part of life, and it is through patience and steadfastness that we can overcome them.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, highlights the significance of enduring a continuous physical ailment. Such an affliction tests an individual's patience, resilience, and faith. It challenges their ability to remain steadfast in the face of ongoing pain and suffering. It is a trial that requires immense strength and perseverance.

Moreover, the Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to empathize and support those who are enduring chronic illnesses or disabilities. It calls upon us to show compassion, understanding, and assistance to those who are facing unrelenting physical ailments. By doing so, we fulfill the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of caring for one another and alleviating the suffering of our fellow Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the immense difficulty and hardship that comes with enduring a continuous physical ailment. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to remain patient, resilient, and compassionate in the face of such trials. By seeking solace in the teachings of the Quran and drawing strength from the examples set by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions, we can navigate through the challenges of life with faith and perseverance. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to face our trials and the ability to support and uplift one another in times of affliction.