Hadith #10867

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of piety in three aspects: reforming the faith, protecting the soul, and adorning magnanimity. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of these words and explore their connections with the Quranic teachings.

The term (الْوَرَعُ) "al-wara'" in Arabic refers to piety, righteousness, and the fear of Allah. It encompasses a deep sense of awareness and consciousness of one's actions, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Islam. Piety is not merely the observance of rituals, but a comprehensive approach to life that encompasses both outward and inward actions.

The first aspect mentioned in the Hadith is that piety reforms the faith. This means that when one practices piety, it leads to the purification and improvement of their faith. The Quran affirms this concept in various verses. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous (al-Atqākum).

Here, the term "al-Atqākum" refers to the most righteous or pious individuals. It highlights that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety. By practicing piety, individuals can elevate their faith, strengthen their connection with Allah, and become better Muslims.

The second aspect mentioned in the Hadith is that piety protects the soul. This implies that when one embraces piety, it acts as a shield against sins and temptations, safeguarding the soul from spiritual harm. The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11) beautifully illustrates this concept, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding mockery, insults, and offensive nicknames. Such behavior is considered disobedience and can harm the soul. By practicing piety, Muslims are reminded to be mindful of their words and actions, protecting themselves from indulging in harmful behavior that can damage their spiritual well-being.

The third aspect mentioned in the Hadith is that piety adorns magnanimity. Magnanimity refers to generosity, nobility, and a noble character. When one embraces piety, it enhances their moral character, making them more virtuous and compassionate individuals. The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4) beautifully illustrates this concept, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse is specifically revealed in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who was known for his noble character. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the successor and embodiment of the Prophet's teachings, also possessed a magnanimous character. By practicing piety, Muslims are encouraged to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet and the Ahl al-Bayt, adorning themselves with noble qualities such as kindness, compassion, and generosity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of piety in reforming the faith, protecting the soul, and adorning magnanimity. By practicing piety, Muslims can purify and strengthen their faith, shield their souls from spiritual harm, and cultivate noble character traits. It serves as a reminder for all Muslims to strive for piety in their daily lives, seeking Allah's pleasure and following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny. May Allah guide us all on the path of piety and righteousness.