Hadith #6007

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, "الطاعة أَبْقَى عِزًّا" which translates to

Obedience is the longest lasting prestige.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and enduring nature of obedience in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To better understand the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The word (ta'ah) "طاعة" refers to obedience, submission, and compliance. It signifies willingly adhering to the commands and prohibitions of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His chosen representatives. The term (abqa) "أبقى" means lasting, enduring, and everlasting. It emphasizes the eternal nature of the reward and honor that comes with obedience.

The exegesis of this Hadith can be further illuminated by the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of obedience and its everlasting rewards. In Surah Al Imran, verse 31, Allah says,

Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.'

This verse highlights the correlation between obedience to the Prophet (ﷺ) and the love and forgiveness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa, verse 59, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you. And if you disagree over anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day. That is the best [way] and best in result.

This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience not only to Allah and His Messenger, but also to those in authority who uphold the teachings of Islam. It highlights the significance of obedience in maintaining unity and resolving disputes within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Obedience is the longest lasting prestige,

serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His chosen representatives. By obeying the commands and prohibitions of Allah and following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we attain a lasting honor and prestige in the sight of Allah. This obedience is not limited to mere outward actions, but also encompasses the internalization of the values and principles of Islam in our hearts and minds.

When we strive to obey Allah and His Messenger, we align ourselves with the divine will and purpose. This obedience leads to spiritual growth, purification of the soul, and the attainment of Allah's pleasure. It also strengthens our relationship with Allah and brings us closer to Him. The consequences of obedience are manifold, as it leads to the development of righteous character, the fulfillment of our duties towards others, and the establishment of justice and equity in society.

Moreover, obedience to Allah and His chosen representatives has profound implications for our personal and collective well-being. It protects us from the harmful consequences of disobedience and sin, both in this world and the Hereafter. It shields us from the destructive consequences of our desires and inclinations, and guides us towards a path of righteousness and success.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His chosen representatives. By adhering to the commands and prohibitions of Islam, we attain a lasting honor and prestige in the sight of Allah. This obedience is not limited to mere outward actions, but also encompasses the internalization of Islamic values and principles. It leads to spiritual growth, personal and collective well-being, and the establishment of justice and equity in society. May Allah grant us the ability to be obedient servants and may He bless us with His eternal mercy and forgiveness.