Hadith #4421

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 رَضِيَ بِالقَضاءِ اِسْتَراحَ۔

which translates to

One who is pleased with the decree [of Allah] is at ease.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of accepting and being content with the divine decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of our lives.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words used. The word (radiya) "رَضِيَ" means to be pleased, satisfied, or content. It signifies a state of inner tranquility and acceptance. The word (bil-qada) "بِالقَضاءِ" refers to the decree or judgment of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses all the events and circumstances that occur in our lives, whether they are perceived as positive or negative.

The concept of being content with the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. 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 ultimately beneficial for us, or to desire something that may be harmful.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Tawbah (9:51), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, 'Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector.' And upon Allah let the believers rely.

This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on Allah's decree and trusting in His wisdom and protection.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement teaches us that true peace and tranquility can be attained by accepting and embracing the divine decree. When we are content with the circumstances that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has ordained for us, we free ourselves from the burden of constant worry and anxiety. We recognize that everything that happens in our lives is part of Allah's greater plan, and He knows what is best for us.

Being pleased with the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not mean that we become passive or indifferent towards our circumstances. Rather, it is a mindset that allows us to face challenges with patience, gratitude, and a belief that there is wisdom and goodness in every situation. It is a recognition that Allah's decree is based on His infinite knowledge and mercy.

For example, if we face a loss or a disappointment, instead of dwelling on the negative aspects, we can find solace in the fact that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has a greater plan for us. We can trust that He will replace what was lost with something better, whether it be in this world or the Hereafter. This mindset enables us to maintain a positive outlook and find peace amidst the trials of life.

On the other hand, if we are constantly discontent and resistant to the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we subject ourselves to unnecessary stress and unhappiness. We may become consumed by desires and expectations that are not aligned with what Allah has decreed for us. This can lead to a perpetual state of dissatisfaction and discontentment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being pleased with the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By accepting and embracing His divine plan for us, we can attain true peace and tranquility. This mindset allows us to face life's challenges with patience, gratitude, and trust in Allah's wisdom and mercy. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be content with His decree and find solace in His infinite wisdom.