Hadith #6779

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,

مَنِ انْفَرَدَ كُفِيَ الأحْزانَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who isolates himself is spared from sorrows.

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

The word (infarada) "انفرد" in this Hadith refers to isolating oneself or withdrawing from others. It implies seeking solitude or seclusion. The word (kufiya) "كُفِيَ" means to be spared or protected from something. And the word (al-ahzan) "الأحْزانَ" means sorrows or grief.

When we reflect upon this Hadith, we find that it highlights the benefits of solitude and seclusion. It suggests that by distancing oneself from the distractions and pressures of the world, one can find relief from sorrows and grief. This does not mean complete isolation from society, but rather taking moments of solitude to reflect, rejuvenate, and seek solace in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran provides us with numerous examples and teachings that support the wisdom behind this Hadith. For instance, in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:45), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of prayer and remembrance of Allah as a means to protect oneself from immoral actions and their consequences.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse within the land and seek from the bounty of Allah, and remember Allah often that you may succeed.

This verse encourages believers to disperse after congregational prayer and engage in seeking sustenance from Allah's blessings. However, it also emphasizes the importance of remembering Allah frequently, indicating that moments of solitude and reflection are essential for spiritual growth and success.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) complements these Quranic teachings by highlighting the psychological and emotional benefits of solitude. By isolating oneself from the distractions and chaos of the world, individuals can find solace and peace within themselves. This can lead to a clearer mind, increased self-awareness, and a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, solitude provides an opportunity for introspection and self-reflection. It allows individuals to assess their actions, thoughts, and intentions, and seek forgiveness and guidance from Allah. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:205), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And remember your Lord within yourself in humility and in fear without being apparent in speech - in the mornings and the evenings. And do not be among the heedless.

This verse encourages believers to remember Allah within themselves, indicating the importance of internal reflection and seeking His guidance.

Furthermore, solitude can also serve as a means to detach from worldly attachments and focus on the eternal life. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:16), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us,

Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah and what has come down of the truth?

This verse emphasizes the need for believers to humble themselves and remember Allah, indicating that solitude can facilitate this process by allowing individuals to detach from worldly distractions and focus on the remembrance of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the benefits of solitude and seclusion. By isolating oneself from the distractions of the world, individuals can find relief from sorrows and grief. This concept aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the importance of prayer, remembrance of Allah, introspection, and detachment from worldly attachments. Solitude provides an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection with Allah. May Allah guide us to implement these teachings in our lives and grant us the strength to find solace in His remembrance.