Hadith #3193

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

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

مَعَ الإخلاصِ تُرْفَعُ الأعْمالُ۔

This can be translated as,

With sincerity, deeds are raised (i.e. accepted).

This wise utterance emphasizes the importance of sincerity in our actions and highlights its role in the acceptance of our deeds by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (ikhlas) "إخلاص" refers to sincerity, purity, and the absence of any hidden motives or desires. It is the act of performing an action solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure alone. (turfa'u) "تُرْفَعُ" means to be raised or elevated, indicating that sincere deeds are elevated in status and accepted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The concept of sincerity in our actions is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:61),

And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakah. And that is the correct religion.

This verse highlights the importance of sincerity in worship, as it is the foundation of the correct religion.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Unquestionably, for Allah is the pure religion. And those who take protectors besides Him [say], 'We only worship them that they may bring us nearer to Allah in position.' Indeed, Allah will judge between them concerning that over which they differ. Indeed, Allah does not guide he who is a liar and [confirmed] disbeliever.

This verse warns against associating partners with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and emphasizes the importance of pure and sincere worship.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us that sincerity is not only a prerequisite for the acceptance of our deeds but also a reflection of our faith and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we perform acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, or giving charity, with sincerity, we detach ourselves from any worldly desires or seeking recognition from others. Our intention becomes solely to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and this elevates the status of our deeds in His sight.

Sincerity in our actions also has profound consequences in our lives. When we strive for sincerity, it purifies our hearts and strengthens our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It helps us develop a sense of humility, gratitude, and reliance on Him. Sincere actions also inspire others and have a positive impact on society, as they are driven by selflessness and a genuine desire to serve and benefit others.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith, we should constantly evaluate our intentions and strive for sincerity in all aspects of our lives. Whether it is in our worship, relationships, or daily interactions, we should seek to purify our intentions and align them with the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By doing so, we can ensure that our deeds are accepted and elevated in the sight of our Creator.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate sincerity in our actions and accept our deeds. May He bless us with the guidance to follow the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Ahl al-Bayt in seeking His pleasure. Ameen.