Hadith #11494

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "مَنْ أيْقَنَ أحْسَنَ۔" This can be translated as,

Whoever possesses certitude does good [deeds].

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (ayqana) "أيْقَنَ" in this Hadith refers to possessing certitude or conviction. It signifies a deep and unwavering belief in something, beyond mere faith or belief. It is a state of absolute certainty that is rooted in knowledge and understanding. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to the certainty of faith and the conviction in the truth of Islam.

To understand the significance of possessing certitude and its connection to doing good deeds, we can turn to the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:2)

This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.

Here, Allah emphasizes the certainty and clarity of the Quran as a source of guidance for those who possess taqwa (consciousness of Allah).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 49:15)

The believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.

This verse highlights the connection between true belief and action. The believers are those who possess unwavering certainty in Allah and His Messenger, and this certainty motivates them to strive in the cause of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses. When a person possesses certitude in their faith, it becomes a driving force for them to do good deeds. This certitude is not just a passive belief, but an active conviction that compels one to act in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

For example, when a person is certain about the existence and oneness of Allah, they will naturally strive to fulfill their obligations towards Him. They will perform their prayers, give charity, and abstain from forbidden actions, knowing with absolute certainty that they are fulfilling their duties as servants of Allah.

Similarly, when a person possesses certitude in the Prophethood of Muhammad (ﷺ), they will follow his example and teachings with unwavering conviction. They will strive to emulate his character, his kindness, and his mercy towards others. Their certitude will motivate them to be honest, just, and compassionate in their dealings with others.

Moreover, certitude in the truth of Islam also leads to a sense of purpose and motivation in life. When one is certain about the ultimate truth and purpose of their existence, they are driven to make the most of their time in this world. They are motivated to seek knowledge, contribute to society, and strive for excellence in all aspects of life.

On the other hand, lacking certitude can lead to doubt, confusion, and a lack of motivation in performing good deeds. Without a firm belief and conviction, one may waver in their commitment to Islam and may not fully embrace the teachings and values it promotes.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound connection between possessing certitude and doing good deeds. Certitude is not just a passive belief, but an active conviction that motivates and guides our actions. It is through certitude that we find the strength and inspiration to fulfill our obligations as Muslims and strive for excellence in all aspects of life. May Allah grant us all the gift of certitude and enable us to do good deeds that are pleasing to Him.