Hadith #5520

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,

Our follower is like the citron, its smell is fragrant and [both] its outward and inward are beautiful.

This beautiful analogy used by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the qualities and characteristics of a true believer, particularly the followers of the Ahl al-Bayt.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining its key words and their implications. The word (our follower) "شيعَتُنا" refers to those who sincerely follow and adhere to the teachings and guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt. These individuals are not merely nominal followers, but rather they embody the true essence of faith and strive to emulate the noble qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny.

The term (like the citron) "كَالأُتْرُجَّةِ" is significant in this Hadith. The citron is a fruit known for its pleasant fragrance, which permeates the air around it. Similarly, the followers of the Ahl al-Bayt are characterized by their virtuous conduct, kindness, and compassion. Their actions and words emit a fragrance of righteousness and goodness, impacting those around them in a positive manner.

The phrase (its smell is fragrant) "طَيِّبٌ رِيحُها" emphasizes the spiritual aroma of the believer. Just as the scent of the citron is pleasing to the senses, the believers' actions and demeanor radiate a spiritual fragrance that attracts others towards the path of righteousness. This fragrance is a reflection of their faith, sincerity, and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, the Hadith states, (both its outward and inward are beautiful) "حَسَنٌ ظاهِرُها وباطِنُها". This highlights the holistic nature of a true believer. Their external appearance, characterized by modesty, humility, and good manners, is a reflection of their internal state of purity, sincerity, and piety. Their inner beauty shines through their actions, intentions, and the way they interact with others.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse reminds us that true nobility lies not in external appearances or worldly status, but in righteousness and piety. The followers of the Ahl al-Bayt, who embody the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny, are those who strive to attain this noble status through their devotion to Allah and their commitment to following the path of righteousness.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith is Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of both inward and outward strength in the life of a believer. The followers of the Ahl al-Bayt, like the citron, possess a firmness in their faith and character. They are steadfast in their devotion to Allah and His commands, and they strive to uphold the principles of justice, compassion, and righteousness in all aspects of their lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully describes the qualities of a true believer, particularly the followers of the Ahl al-Bayt. They are like the fragrant citron, emitting a spiritual fragrance of righteousness and goodness. Their inner and outer beauty is a reflection of their faith, sincerity, and devotion to Allah. May we all strive to embody these qualities and follow in the footsteps of the Ahl al-Bayt, for they are the epitome of guidance and righteousness.