Hadith #8646

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the concept of attaining nearness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the people through different means. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that drawing closer to Allah is achieved by asking from Him, while gaining closeness to the people is attained by refraining from asking them for anything.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The word (taqarrub) "تَقَرُّب" means "attaining nearness" or "drawing closer." It refers to seeking proximity to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and developing a close relationship with Him. The word (mas'alah) "مَسْئَلَة" means "asking" or "requesting." It signifies seeking help, guidance, and blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that the path to attaining nearness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is through asking from Him. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages believers to turn to Him in supplication and seek His assistance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:186)

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me

This verse emphasizes the importance of asking from Allah and the assurance that He is always ready to respond to our prayers.

On the other hand, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions gaining closeness to the people by refraining from asking them for anything. This implies that one should not burden others with constant requests and demands. Instead, we should strive to be self-sufficient and independent, relying on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for our needs. This aligns with the Quranic teachings of self-reliance and not burdening others. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring

This verse reminds us that relying on material possessions and seeking from others can distract us from the true source of provision, which is Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) guidance in this Hadith teaches us the importance of balance in our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the people. By asking from Allah, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and recognize His infinite mercy and generosity. Through supplication, we strengthen our connection with Him and seek His guidance and blessings in all aspects of our lives.

At the same time, refraining from constantly asking others for our needs fosters self-reliance and cultivates a sense of independence. It encourages us to strive for self-sufficiency and to be considerate of the needs and burdens of others. By relying on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and refraining from excessive requests, we develop a sense of contentment and gratitude, recognizing that all provision ultimately comes from Him.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thoughtful words in this Hadith remind us of the importance of our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the people. By seeking nearness to Allah through supplication and refraining from excessive requests from others, we can cultivate a balanced and harmonious existence. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to follow the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and attain nearness to Him.