Hadith #4942

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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, "التَّسليمُ أنْ لاتَتَّهِمَ۔" which translates to

Submission means not blaming [Allah for what happens].

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the essence of true submission to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the importance of accepting His decree without questioning or blaming.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us first explore the key words and their significance. The word (tasleem) "تَسْلِيم" refers to submission, surrender, or acceptance. It implies a state of complete surrender to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), acknowledging His wisdom and authority over all matters. The word (tattahima) "تَتَّهِمَ" means blaming, accusing, or finding fault. It signifies the act of holding Allah responsible for the events and circumstances that occur in one's life.

In the Quran, we find numerous verses that emphasize the concept of submission to Allah and the importance of accepting His decree. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:216),

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse reminds us that our limited understanding may lead us to dislike something that is actually beneficial for us, while we may desire something that could be harmful. Therefore, true submission requires trusting in Allah's wisdom and accepting His decree, even if it goes against our desires or expectations.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:49), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And the record [of deeds] will be placed [open], and you will see the criminals fearful of that within it, and they will say, 'Oh, woe to us! What is this book that leaves nothing small or great except that it has enumerated it?' And they will find what they did present [before them]. And your Lord does injustice to no one.

This verse highlights the Day of Judgment when every action will be accounted for. Those who blamed Allah for their misfortunes in the worldly life will realize that their own deeds were the cause of their consequences. It serves as a reminder that Allah is just and does not wrong anyone.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that true submission to Allah requires us to let go of our ego and trust in His divine plan. It means accepting that everything that happens in our lives, whether perceived as good or bad, is ultimately for our own benefit and in accordance with Allah's wisdom. Blaming Allah for our hardships or questioning His decree is a sign of a lack of faith and understanding.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, teaches us through this Hadith to embrace the concept of submission wholeheartedly. By doing so, we free ourselves from the burden of blame and find solace in the knowledge that Allah's decree is always just and perfect. This submission allows us to navigate through the challenges of life with patience, gratitude, and trust in Allah's plan.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims to submit to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) without blaming Him for the events that unfold in our lives. It encourages us to trust in His wisdom and accept His decree, knowing that everything happens for a reason and is ultimately for our own benefit. May Allah grant us the ability to embody true submission and find peace in His divine plan.