Hadith #9404

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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, "اللَّجاجُ شُؤْمٌ۔" which translates to "Stubbornness is ill-fated." To understand the meaning behind this statement, let us delve into the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (al-lajaj) "اللَّجاجُ" refers to stubbornness or obstinacy. It signifies a refusal to accept or yield to reason, advice, or guidance. It is a state of being unyielding and resistant to change. The word (shu'm) "شُؤْمٌ" means ill-fated or destined for destruction. It implies that stubbornness leads to negative consequences and brings about ruin.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the perils of stubbornness in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:206)

And when it is said to him, 'Fear Allah,' pride in the sin takes hold of him. Sufficient for him is Hellfire, and how wretched is the resting place

This verse highlights the destructive nature of stubbornness, as it leads to arrogance and ultimately leads one towards the torment of Hellfire.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah recounts the story of Pharaoh, who epitomized stubbornness and its dire consequences. Allah says, (Quran 28:32-33)

But when Our verses came to them as clear evidences, they said, 'This is obvious magic.' And they rejected them, while their [inner] selves were convinced thereof, out of injustice and haughtiness. So see how was the end of the corrupters

This example serves as a stark reminder of the disastrous outcome that awaits those who persist in their obstinacy and reject the signs of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, "Stubbornness is ill-fated," emphasizes the importance of humility, open-mindedness, and the willingness to accept guidance. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that stubbornness can lead to spiritual and worldly ruin. When individuals refuse to acknowledge their mistakes, learn from others, or adapt to changing circumstances, they become trapped in a cycle of ignorance and arrogance.

Stubbornness can hinder personal growth, damage relationships, and impede the progress of communities. It prevents individuals from seeking knowledge, rectifying their faults, and embracing the truth. By contrast, humility allows for self-reflection, growth, and the acquisition of wisdom. It enables individuals to recognize their limitations, seek guidance from Allah, and learn from the experiences of others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate the qualities of humility and open-mindedness. It encourages us to reflect on our own behavior and attitudes, ensuring that we do not fall into the trap of stubbornness. By embracing humility and being receptive to guidance, we can avoid the ill-fated path of stubbornness and instead strive for personal and spiritual growth.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize the dangers of stubbornness and the strength to overcome it. May we always be open to learning, willing to change, and guided by the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).