Hadith #7702

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Virtuous action is the best provision and the greatest asset.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (husn) "حُسْنُ" in Arabic refers to goodness, beauty, and excellence. It encompasses all forms of righteous deeds that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It includes acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and charity, as well as acts of kindness and compassion towards others. The word (amal) "عَمَلِ" means action or deed. Therefore, (husn al-amal) "حُسْنُ العَمَلِ" refers to performing virtuous actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that virtuous actions are not only commendable in themselves but also serve as the best provision for the journey of life. Just as a traveler prepares provisions for a long and arduous journey, a believer must prepare for the journey of life by engaging in virtuous actions. These actions nourish the soul, strengthen the faith, and bring one closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The phrase (khayr dhukr) "خَيْرُ ذُخْر" translates to "the best provision." It signifies that virtuous actions are the most valuable and beneficial provision that a believer can possess. They are a source of spiritual sustenance, guidance, and protection in this world and the hereafter. Just as a traveler relies on provisions to sustain themselves during their journey, a believer relies on virtuous actions to navigate the challenges of life and attain success in the hereafter.

The phrase (wa afdalu 'uddah) "وأفْضَلُ عُدَّة" means "the greatest asset." It emphasizes that virtuous actions are not only valuable but also serve as the most significant asset for a believer. They are a means of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure, and securing eternal rewards. Just as a valuable asset provides security and stability, virtuous actions provide spiritual security and pave the way for everlasting bliss.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is righteousness.

This verse emphasizes the importance of virtuous actions as the ultimate provision for the journey of life. It highlights that righteousness is superior to material possessions and worldly provisions.

In Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the superiority of enduring good deeds in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It emphasizes that virtuous actions are more valuable and beneficial than material wealth or worldly achievements.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we understand that virtuous actions are not only a means of earning rewards but also a source of spiritual growth and fulfillment. They shape our character, purify our intentions, and strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Engaging in virtuous actions brings peace, contentment, and a sense of purpose to our lives.

Furthermore, virtuous actions have a ripple effect in society. When individuals strive to perform good deeds, they inspire others to follow suit. This leads to the establishment of a virtuous community that upholds justice, compassion, and righteousness. The consequences of virtuous actions extend beyond the individual, impacting the wider society and fostering an environment of harmony and prosperity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the immense value and significance of virtuous actions. It encourages us to prioritize righteousness in our lives, as it serves as the best provision and the greatest asset for our journey in this world and the hereafter. Let us strive to engage in virtuous actions, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the eternal rewards that come with them. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with the ability to perform virtuous actions and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.