Hadith #10168

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 noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "النَّزاهَةُ آيَةُ العِفَّةِ" which translates to

Keeping away from sin is the sign of chastity.

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

Firstly, let us understand the important words in this Hadith. (an-nazahah) "النَّزاهَةُ" refers to purity, integrity, and being free from impurities. It signifies a state of being untainted by sin or wrongdoing. (ayat) "آيَةُ" means a sign or evidence, and (al-'iffah) "العِفَّةِ" refers to chastity, modesty, and purity in thought, speech, and action.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and avoiding sin. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:33),

Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed - and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.'

This verse highlights the prohibition of immoralities and sin, emphasizing the need to abstain from actions that are clearly sinful as well as those that are hidden. It is a reminder to Muslims to adhere to the teachings of Islam and refrain from any form of wrongdoing.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes that refraining from sin is a sign of chastity. Chastity encompasses not only physical purity but also purity of the heart, mind, and intentions. When one consciously avoids sin and strives to live a righteous life, it is a clear indication of their commitment to maintaining their moral integrity.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11-12), 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. O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

These verses highlight the importance of maintaining good conduct, avoiding ridicule, insults, offensive nicknames, negative assumptions, spying, and backbiting. Such actions are considered sinful and tarnish one's moral character. By refraining from these sins, one demonstrates their commitment to upholding the values of chastity and purity.

The consequences of adhering to the teachings of this Hadith are profound. When Muslims strive to keep away from sin, they not only preserve their own purity but also contribute to the betterment of society. By embodying the values of chastity and integrity, they become role models for others, inspiring them to follow the path of righteousness.

Furthermore, avoiding sin leads to a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When individuals consciously abstain from sinful actions, they purify their hearts and increase their proximity to the Divine. This closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) brings about spiritual tranquility, contentment, and a sense of fulfillment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of keeping away from sin as a sign of chastity. By refraining from sinful actions and striving to live a righteous life, Muslims demonstrate their commitment to maintaining their moral integrity. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the prohibition of sin and the importance of upholding purity and righteousness. By adhering to these principles, Muslims not only preserve their own purity but also contribute to the betterment of society and strengthen their connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to stay away from sin and uphold the values of chastity in all aspects of our lives.