Hadith #2629

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,

مَنْ عَمِلَ بِالحَقِّ غَنِمَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who acts upon the truth, gains [from it].

In this Hadith, there are two important words that require our attention. The first is (haqq) "حَقِّ", which means truth or righteousness. It refers to that which is in accordance with the divine guidance and the teachings of Islam. The second word is (ghanima) "غَنِمَ", which means to gain or acquire. It signifies the rewards and benefits that one attains as a result of acting upon the truth.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is righteousness. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of righteousness as the best provision for the journey of life. It reminds us that acting upon the truth is not only a means of attaining success in the hereafter but also a source of guidance and protection in this world.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the importance of enduring good deeds. It teaches us that the true gains and rewards lie in the actions that are rooted in truth and righteousness.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that acting upon the truth is not only a moral obligation but also a means of acquiring spiritual and worldly benefits. When we align our actions with the divine guidance, we not only gain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also experience the positive consequences of our righteous deeds.

For example, if a person acts upon the truth by fulfilling their obligations towards their family, they will gain a harmonious and loving family environment. If a person acts upon the truth by being honest and just in their business dealings, they will gain the trust and respect of others, leading to success and prosperity in their endeavors. If a person acts upon the truth by seeking knowledge and understanding, they will gain wisdom and enlightenment.

The motivation behind acting upon the truth should not solely be the desire for personal gain, but rather the sincere intention to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure. However, it is important to recognize that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in His infinite mercy has promised rewards and blessings for those who strive to live a righteous life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that acting upon the truth is not only a moral obligation but also a means of acquiring spiritual and worldly benefits. By aligning our actions with the divine guidance, we gain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and experience the positive consequences of our righteous deeds. Let us strive to be people of truth and righteousness, seeking the ultimate gain in this world and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the straight path and grant us success in our pursuit of truth.