Hadith #2697

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

لَوْ حَفِظْتُمْ حُدُودَ اللّهِ سُبْحانَهُ لَعَجَّلَ لَكُمْ مِنْ فَضْلِهِ المَوْعُودَ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of preserving the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and promises that if we do so, He will hasten His promised bounty for us.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith by examining its key words and their significance. The word (hudood) "حُدُودَ" refers to the limits or boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in various aspects of life, including religious, moral, social, and legal boundaries. These boundaries are meant to guide and protect us, ensuring a balanced and righteous way of life.

The word (la'ajjala) "لَعَجَّلَ" means to hasten or expedite. Here, it signifies that if we faithfully observe and preserve the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), He will expedite the fulfillment of His promised blessings and favors upon us.

To understand the significance of preserving Allah's boundaries, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 187:

It has been made lawful for you to approach your wives during the nights of the fast. They are a garment for you and you are a garment for them. Allah knew that you were being dishonest to yourselves, so He turned to you in forgiveness and accepted your repentance. Now you may have relations with them and seek what Allah has ordained for you. Eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct from the black thread. Then complete the fast until nightfall. And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques. These are the limits set by Allah, so do not approach them. Thus does Allah make clear His verses to the people that they may become righteous.

This verse highlights the importance of preserving the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in matters of fasting and marital relations. By adhering to these boundaries, we demonstrate our obedience and submission to Allah's commandments. In return, Allah accepts our repentance, forgives our shortcomings, and blesses us with His mercy and favors.

Another relevant Quranic verse is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 87:

O you who have believed, do not prohibit the good things which Allah has made lawful to you and do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse emphasizes the importance of not exceeding the limits set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and not forbidding that which He has made permissible. By respecting and preserving these boundaries, we uphold justice, fairness, and righteousness in our actions and interactions.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that preserving the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. It encompasses all aspects of our lives, including our worship, relationships, and conduct. By adhering to these boundaries, we demonstrate our love and reverence for Allah, seek His pleasure, and pave the way for His promised blessings and favors to be hastened upon us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to preserve the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations as believers but also open the doors to Allah's abundant blessings and favors. May Allah guide us all to uphold His boundaries and grant us His promised bounty.