Hadith #9279

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الْكُفْرُ خِذْلَانٌ" which translates to

Disbelief is disappointment [and failure].

This concise statement holds connotation and serves as a reminder for all Muslims.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us first delve into the meanings of the key words. "Al-Kufr" refers to disbelief or rejection of faith. It is the antithesis of (faith) "Iman" and signifies a state of denial or ingratitude towards the truth. "Khidlan" means disappointment or failure, indicating the consequences of disbelief.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that shed light on the consequences of disbelief and the importance of faith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:39),

And those who disbelieve and deny Our signs - those will be companions of the Fire; they will abide therein eternally.

This verse highlights the severe consequences of disbelief, as those who reject the signs of Allah will be destined for eternal punishment.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:217), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And whoever of you reverts from his religion [to disbelief] and dies while he is a disbeliever - for those, their deeds have become worthless in this world and the Hereafter, and those are the companions of the Fire, they will abide therein eternally.

This verse emphasizes the futility of a life spent in disbelief, as it renders one's deeds meaningless and leads to eternal damnation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the inherent failure and disappointment that accompanies disbelief. When one rejects faith, they distance themselves from the guidance and mercy of Allah. They become disconnected from the ultimate source of success and fulfillment. Disbelief leads to a life devoid of purpose, meaning, and true contentment.

The consequences of disbelief are not limited to the Hereafter; they also manifest in this worldly life. Disbelief often leads to a state of confusion, emptiness, and dissatisfaction. It creates a void within the heart that cannot be filled with material possessions or worldly achievements. The disbeliever may experience a constant sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction, as they are deprived of the spiritual nourishment that comes with faith.

Conversely, embracing faith brings about a sense of tranquility, purpose, and fulfillment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28),

Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.

This verse emphasizes that true contentment and peace of heart can only be attained through faith in Allah and His remembrance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to hold firmly onto their faith and to never underestimate the consequences of disbelief. It encourages us to reflect upon the blessings and guidance that come with faith, and to strive towards strengthening our relationship with Allah.

May we always remain steadfast in our faith and seek refuge from the disappointment and failure that accompanies disbelief. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to recognize the true value of faith and to live our lives in accordance with His guidance.