Hadith #2894

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 companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the profound nature of the affairs of the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet) and the challenges they faced. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its important words and their meanings in light of the Quran.

The first word to examine is (difficult) "صَعْبٌ", which refers to the immense complexity and intricacy of the affairs of the Ahl al-Bayt. This word conveys the idea that their mission was not a simple or easy task. The Quran supports this notion in various verses, such as in Surah Al-Hajj (22:78), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty.

This verse emphasizes that the path chosen by Allah for His chosen ones is not devoid of challenges and hardships.

The second word is (arduous) "مُسْتَصْعَبٌ", which further emphasizes the intensity and difficulty of the Ahl al-Bayt's mission. This word signifies the immense effort and struggle required to fulfill their responsibilities. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that Allah never imposes a burden upon His servants that is beyond their capacity. Therefore, the arduousness of the Ahl al-Bayt's mission was within their capabilities, as they were chosen by Allah Himself.

The third word is (rough) "خَشِنٌ", which signifies the harshness and severity of the challenges faced by the Ahl al-Bayt. This word indicates the rugged nature of their path, filled with obstacles and opposition. In Surah Al-Fath (48:29), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; and those with him are forceful against the disbelievers, merciful among themselves.

This verse highlights the firmness and strength of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions in dealing with the opposition they encountered. Similarly, the Ahl al-Bayt faced rough and harsh circumstances, standing firm in their mission despite the challenges.

The fourth word is (harsh) "مُخْشَوْشِنٌ", which further emphasizes the severity and intensity of the trials faced by the Ahl al-Bayt. This word conveys the idea that their path was marked by difficulties and hardships that tested their resolve and commitment. In Surah Al-Imran (3:186), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

You will surely be tested in your possessions and in yourselves.

This verse reminds us that trials and tribulations are an inherent part of the believers' journey. The Ahl al-Bayt, being the epitome of faith, were not exempt from such tests.

The fifth word is (secret) "سِرٌ", which refers to the hidden nature of the affairs of the Ahl al-Bayt. Their mission was not always apparent to the public eye, as they often worked behind the scenes to establish justice and propagate the true teachings of Islam. In Surah Al-Mujadila (58:7), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Do not make your charities worthless by reminders and injury.

This verse emphasizes the importance of performing acts of charity in secret, highlighting the virtue of concealing one's good deeds. Similarly, the Ahl al-Bayt carried out their mission discreetly, without seeking recognition or worldly gains.

The sixth word is (hidden) "مُسْتَسِرٌّ", which further emphasizes the concealed nature of the affairs of the Ahl al-Bayt. Their actions and intentions were often veiled from the eyes of the people, known only to Allah and those who were close to them. In Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining good relations with those who do not oppose or harm the believers. Similarly, the Ahl al-Bayt maintained hidden relationships and alliances to protect and preserve the interests of the Muslim community.

The Hadith also mentions that only the favored angel, the appointed prophet, or the believer whose heart Allah has tested for faith can access the affairs of the Ahl al-Bayt. This emphasizes the exclusive nature of their mission and the divine protection and guidance bestowed upon them. It highlights the unique knowledge and insight possessed by the Ahl al-Bayt, particularly Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his unparalleled wisdom and understanding of the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the challenging and intricate nature of the affairs of the Ahl al-Bayt. It highlights the difficulties, harshness, secrecy, and exclusivity of their mission. The Quranic verses mentioned provide support and context for these characteristics. As Muslims, we should reflect upon the profound nature of their mission and strive to follow in their footsteps, seeking guidance from their teachings and example. May Allah grant us the understanding and ability to comprehend the depth of their message and the strength to face the challenges of our own times.