Hadith #1987

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,

لَيْسَ لِهذا الجِلْدِ الرَّقيقِ صَبْرٌ عَلَى النّارِ۔

This can be translated as,

This tender skin does not have the tolerance to withstand the fire [of hell].

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (jild) "جِلْدِ" refers to the skin, which is the outer covering of our bodies. It is delicate and vulnerable, unable to endure the intense heat and torment of the fire of Hell. This emphasizes the fragility and weakness of human beings in the face of divine punishment.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran about the consequences of our actions and the punishment that awaits those who disobey His commands. In Surah Al-Hajj, Allah says, (Quran 22:25)

Indeed, those who disbelieve and avert [people] from the way of Allah and [from] al-Masjid al-Haram, which We made for the people - equal are the resident therein and one from outside; and [also] whoever intends [a deed] therein of deviation [in religion] or wrongdoing - We will make him taste of a painful punishment.

This ayah highlights the severity of the punishment that awaits those who turn away from the path of Allah and engage in wrongdoing. It serves as a reminder that the fire of Hell is a punishment that cannot be endured by our feeble human bodies. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) draws our attention to this reality, urging us to reflect upon the consequences of our actions and the importance of striving to avoid the punishment of Hell.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'arij, Allah describes the intensity of the fire of Hell, saying, (Quran 70:15-16)

Indeed, the Hellfire is of the greatest [afflictions], a warning to whoever wills to take heed or to be reminded.

This ayah emphasizes the severity of the fire of Hell and its purpose as a warning for those who choose to ignore the consequences of their actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be conscious of their deeds and to strive to avoid the punishment of Hell. It highlights the importance of leading a righteous life and adhering to the teachings of Islam. Our bodies, with their delicate and vulnerable skin, are not equipped to endure the torment of Hell. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to seek the pleasure of Allah and strive for righteousness in order to safeguard ourselves from the fire of Hell.

This Hadith also reflects the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He possessed a deep understanding of the consequences of our actions and the severity of divine punishment. His words serve as a reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their actions and strive to align themselves with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the fragility of our human bodies and the severity of the punishment that awaits those who disobey Allah's commands. It serves as a call to action, urging Muslims to reflect upon their deeds, seek repentance, and strive for righteousness in order to protect themselves from the fire of Hell. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the straight path and grant us the strength to avoid the punishment of Hell.