Hadith #11268

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 our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is a profound statement that highlights the importance of personal righteousness and knowledge in guiding others. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (guide) "يَهْدِي" and (astray) "يُضِلُّ". The word "يَهْدِي" comes from the root word "هَدَى" which means to guide, direct, or lead someone towards the right path. On the other hand, the word "يُضِلُّ" comes from the root word "ضَلَّ" which means to go astray, deviate, or be misguided.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:258)

Indeed, Allah does not guide those who are wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes that Allah does not guide those who intentionally commit wrong and persist in their wrongdoing. It is clear that guidance is a divine attribute and it is bestowed upon those who seek it sincerely.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 6:88)

Indeed, those whom Allah sends astray - there will be no guide for them.

This verse highlights that those who are led astray by Allah are left without any guidance. It is a consequence of their own actions and choices.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, is reminding us that it is impossible for someone who is himself astray or misguided to guide others towards the right path. Just as Allah does not guide those who intentionally commit wrong, a person who is not on the right path cannot effectively guide others.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize self-reflection and self-improvement before attempting to guide others. It teaches us that personal righteousness and knowledge are essential prerequisites for guiding others towards the truth. If we are not firmly grounded in the teachings of Islam and do not strive to rectify our own shortcomings, our efforts to guide others may be in vain.

Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the importance of seeking guidance from those who are knowledgeable and righteous. In Surah Al-Furqan, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 25:27-29)

And [mention] the Day when the wrongdoer will bite on his hands [in regret] he will say, 'Oh, I wish I had taken with the Messenger a way. Oh, woe to me! I wish I had not taken that one as a friend. He led me away from the remembrance after it had come to me. And ever is Satan, to man, a deserter.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from the Prophet (ﷺ) and his chosen successors, who possess the true knowledge and understanding of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize personal righteousness and knowledge before attempting to guide others. It highlights the divine attribute of guidance and the consequences of going astray. By reflecting on this Hadith and seeking guidance from those who are knowledgeable and righteous, we can strive to be effective guides for ourselves and others in the journey towards the truth. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek guidance and be guided on the straight path.