Hadith #92

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Sleeping in a state of firm belief is better than praying in a state of doubtfulness.

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

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (sleeping) "نَوْمٌ" refers to the state of rest and relaxation that one experiences during sleep. The word (in a state of) "عَلَى" denotes the condition or state in which an action is performed. The word (firm belief) "يَقِينٍ" signifies a state of certainty, conviction, and unwavering faith. Lastly, the word (praying) "صَلَاةٍ" refers to the act of offering prayers to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:257)

Allah is the ally of those who believe; He brings them out from darknesses into the light.

This verse emphasizes the importance of firm belief and certainty in Allah's guidance. It highlights that Allah supports and guides those who have unwavering faith.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (49:12)

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse cautions against doubtfulness and negative assumptions, urging Muslims to have a positive mindset and avoid suspicion.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. The Hadith teaches us that sleeping in a state of firm belief, with complete trust in Allah's mercy and guidance, is more beneficial than praying while being uncertain or doubtful. This does not imply that prayer should be neglected or undermined, but rather emphasizes the importance of having a strong foundation of faith.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the significance of having a sincere and unwavering connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we pray with doubt or uncertainty, our focus and concentration may be compromised, leading to a lack of sincerity in our worship. On the other hand, when we sleep with firm belief, we are entrusting our affairs to Allah, acknowledging His power and control over all matters.

This Hadith encourages Muslims to cultivate a strong and unshakable faith in Allah's guidance, even during times of rest and relaxation. It reminds us that our connection with Allah should be constant and unwavering, permeating every aspect of our lives. Whether we are awake or asleep, our faith should remain steadfast, serving as a source of solace, strength, and tranquility.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of firm belief and certainty in our relationship with Allah. It reminds us that sleeping with unwavering faith is more beneficial than praying with doubtfulness. This Hadith encourages us to strengthen our connection with Allah, seeking His guidance and mercy in all aspects of our lives. May Allah grant us the ability to maintain a firm belief and unwavering faith, both in our waking moments and during our moments of rest.