Hadith #3369

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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, "اَلخَشْيَةُ شيمَةُ السُّعَداءِ۔" This can be translated as,

Fear [and awe] of Allah is the attribute of the felicitous.

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

The word (khawshiyah) "خَشْيَةُ" in this Hadith refers to the fear and awe of Allah. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses both a sense of reverence and a fear of displeasing Allah. This fear is not a paralyzing fear, but rather a motivating force that drives a person to strive for righteousness and avoid sin. It is a fear that stems from a deep understanding of Allah's greatness, His power, and His ability to hold us accountable for our actions.

The term (shimah) "شيمَةُ" in this Hadith can be translated as attribute or characteristic. It signifies that the fear and awe of Allah is not just a fleeting emotion, but rather an inherent quality that defines the felicitous individuals. It is a distinguishing feature of those who are successful in this life and the hereafter.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 67:12)

Indeed, those who fear their Lord unseen will have forgiveness and great reward.

This verse emphasizes the importance of having fear of Allah even when no one is watching. It highlights the sincerity and genuineness of one's faith when they fear Allah in private as well as in public.

In Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 64:16)

So fear Allah as much as you are able and listen and obey and spend [in the way of Allah]; it is better for your selves. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fearing Allah to the best of our abilities. It reminds us that true success lies in overcoming the selfish desires of our souls and striving to please Allah in all aspects of our lives.

The fear and awe of Allah, as mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), is not limited to a mere emotional response. It is a driving force that motivates individuals to perform righteous deeds and abstain from sinful actions. This fear is rooted in a deep understanding of Allah's attributes, His mercy, and His justice. It is a fear that leads to humility, self-reflection, and constant self-improvement.

When a Muslim possesses the fear and awe of Allah, they are constantly conscious of His presence and are mindful of their actions. This fear prevents them from engaging in dishonesty, injustice, and other sinful behaviors. It encourages them to seek knowledge, perform acts of worship, and treat others with kindness and compassion.

The fear and awe of Allah also has profound consequences in the life of a Muslim. It serves as a shield against the temptations of this world and protects them from falling into the traps of Shaytan. It strengthens their relationship with Allah and deepens their faith. It brings them closer to attaining true felicity and success in both this life and the hereafter.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the importance of cultivating the fear and awe of Allah in our hearts. It is a quality that distinguishes the felicitous individuals from the rest. Let us strive to develop this attribute within ourselves and seek Allah's guidance and mercy in our journey towards righteousness. May Allah grant us the ability to fear Him sincerely and may He make us among the felicitous.