Hadith #3418

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

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

مِفْتاحُ الخَيْرِ التَّبَرّي مِنَ الشَّرِّ۔

This can be translated as,

The key to goodness is renouncing evil.

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

The word (miftah) "مِفْتاحُ" in this Hadith means "key." Just as a key unlocks a door and grants access, the key to goodness is described as (tabarri) "تَّبَرّي", which means "renouncing" or "disassociating oneself." It implies distancing oneself from evil, sin, and all that is contrary to the teachings of Islam.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:157), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and states,

Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and forbids them what is wrong and makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them the evil and relieves them of their burden and the shackles which were upon them. So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the role of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the ultimate guide for humanity. He enjoins what is right and forbids what is wrong, just as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes in this Hadith. By following the Prophet's teachings and renouncing evil, we can attain goodness and success in this life and the hereafter.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:96), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Repel, by [means of] what is best, [their] evil. We are most knowing of what they describe.

This verse encourages Muslims to respond to evil with goodness and to repel negativity with positive actions. It emphasizes the importance of renouncing evil and responding to it in the best possible manner.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that the key to goodness lies in renouncing evil. By distancing ourselves from sinful actions, harmful behaviors, and negative influences, we pave the way for goodness to enter our lives. Renouncing evil requires self-discipline, self-reflection, and a sincere desire to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

When we renounce evil, we not only protect ourselves from the consequences of sinful actions but also contribute to the betterment of society. Our positive actions and behavior can inspire others to follow the path of righteousness and create a harmonious and virtuous community.

Moreover, renouncing evil is not limited to avoiding major sins; it also encompasses abstaining from minor sins and even the smallest acts of wrongdoing. It involves purifying our hearts and minds from negative thoughts, envy, backbiting, and any form of harm towards others. By doing so, we cultivate a sense of inner peace, contentment, and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the key to goodness lies in renouncing evil. This principle aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong. By distancing ourselves from evil and striving to live a life of righteousness, we can unlock the doors to goodness, success, and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to follow this path and grant us the strength to renounce evil in all its forms.