Hadith #10781

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,

جَمِيلُ النِّيَّةِ سَبَبٌ لِبُلُوغِ الأُمْنِيَّةِ۔

This can be translated as,

Having a good intention is a means of attaining one's aspiration.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in the light of the Quran.

The word (jameel) "جَمِيلُ" in this Hadith refers to something that is beautiful, good, or excellent. It signifies the quality of having a pure and sincere intention. The word (niyyah) "النِّيَّةِ" means intention, and it refers to the inner motive or purpose behind our actions. It is the driving force that determines the righteousness or sinfulness of our deeds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of having a good intention, as it serves as a means of attaining one's aspirations or goals. This implies that the purity and sincerity of our intentions play a crucial role in the success and fulfillment of our desires.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that highlight the significance of intention and its impact on our actions and outcomes. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:225),

Allah does not impose blame upon you for what is unintentional in your oaths, but He imposes blame upon you for what your hearts have earned.

This verse emphasizes that Allah judges us based on our intentions, rather than the unintentional mistakes we may make.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:84), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Say, 'Each works according to his manner, but your Lord is most knowing of who is best guided in way.'

This verse highlights that Allah is aware of our intentions and judges us based on our individual efforts and sincerity.

Having a good intention not only affects the outcome of our actions but also shapes our character and relationship with Allah. It reflects our devotion, sincerity, and commitment to seeking His pleasure. In Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:4), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

There has already been for you an excellent pattern in Abraham and those with him, when they said to their people, 'Indeed, we are disassociated from you and from whatever you worship other than Allah. We have denied you, and there has appeared between us and you animosity and hatred forever until you believe in Allah alone.'

This verse highlights the noble intentions of Prophet Ibrahim (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his companions, who were willing to sacrifice their worldly ties for the sake of Allah.

Having a good intention also has practical implications in our daily lives. It motivates us to perform righteous deeds, seek knowledge, and strive for excellence. It helps us overcome obstacles and challenges, as our intention becomes a driving force that propels us forward. For example, if a person intends to seek knowledge purely for the sake of Allah and to benefit others, they will be more motivated to study diligently and share their knowledge with sincerity and humility.

Conversely, a corrupt or insincere intention can lead to negative consequences. In Surah Al-Munafiqun (63:4), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And when you see them, their forms please you, and if they speak, you listen to their speech. [They are] as if they were pieces of wood propped up - they think that every shout is against them. They are the enemy, so beware of them. May Allah destroy them; how are they deluded?

This verse highlights the hypocrites who had ulterior motives and insincere intentions. Their actions were superficial, and they sought to deceive others for personal gain.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of having a good intention as a means of attaining one's aspirations. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly highlights the significance of intention in our actions, character, and relationship with Allah. A pure and sincere intention not only leads to the fulfillment of our desires but also shapes our moral character and devotion to Allah. May Allah guide us to always have good intentions and grant us success in attaining our aspirations.