Hadith #5119

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,

مَنْ كَرِهَ الشَّرَّ عُصِمَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who hates evil is safeguarded [from it].

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

The word (karaha) "كَرِهَ" in this Hadith means to dislike or detest something. It signifies a strong aversion towards evil or wrongdoing. The word (ash-sharr) "الشَّرَّ" refers to anything that is morally wrong, harmful, or detrimental. It encompasses all forms of evil, whether it be in thoughts, words, or actions.

The Hadith teaches us that when a person truly hates evil and actively avoids it, they are safeguarded from its harmful effects. This means that by developing a strong aversion towards evil, one can protect themselves from falling into sinful acts and the negative consequences that follow.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of hating evil and striving to stay away from it. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90),

O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.

This verse highlights the necessity of avoiding evil actions such as intoxication and gambling. By detesting these vices and actively staying away from them, believers can protect themselves from the harm they bring. This aligns perfectly with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as it emphasizes the importance of hating evil in order to safeguard oneself.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-A'raf (7:157), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Allah says,

Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and forbids them what is wrong and makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them the evil and relieves them of their burden and the shackles which were upon them. So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the role of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and detesting evil in order to attain success. By following the guidance of the Prophet (ﷺ) and hating evil, believers can protect themselves from the harmful consequences of sinful actions.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that hating evil is not merely a passive feeling, but an active stance against wrongdoing. It requires a conscious effort to identify and avoid evil in all its forms. By developing a strong aversion towards evil, we can protect ourselves from its negative influence and strive towards righteousness.

Moreover, this Hadith teaches us that hating evil is not limited to avoiding sinful acts, but also extends to detesting evil thoughts and intentions. It reminds us that true piety lies in purifying our hearts and minds from any inclination towards evil. By constantly striving to purify our intentions and thoughts, we can safeguard ourselves from the temptations and traps of Shaytan.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of hating evil in order to safeguard ourselves from its harmful consequences. By actively avoiding evil actions, thoughts, and intentions, we can protect our faith and strive towards righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to detest and avoid all forms of evil.