Hadith #3151

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

نِعمَ عَونُ الدُّعاءِ الخُشُوعُ۔

This can be translated as,

How good a supporter of supplication submissiveness!

Let us delve into the exegesis of this beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the light of the Quran.

The word (awun) "عَونُ" in this Hadith refers to a supporter or helper. It signifies someone or something that aids and assists in achieving a desired outcome. In the context of supplication, it refers to the importance of having a supportive element that enhances the effectiveness of our prayers.

The word (du'a) "دُّعاءِ" means supplication or prayer. It is an act of humbly beseeching Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for His mercy, guidance, and assistance. It is a means of establishing a direct connection with our Creator and seeking His blessings in all aspects of our lives.

The word (al-khushu') "الخُشُوعُ" refers to submissiveness, humility, and reverence. It is a state of deep concentration and devotion during prayer, where the heart and mind are fully engaged in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is the opposite of heedlessness and distraction.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of supplication and the significance of being humble and focused in our prayers. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 45, Allah says, (Quran 2:45)

And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah]

This verse highlights the connection between patience, prayer, and humility. It implies that true supplication can only be effective when accompanied by a sincere and humble heart.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun, Ayah 2-3, Allah describes the qualities of successful believers, stating, (Quran 23:2-3)

Who are humble in their prayers, and who turn away from ill speech

This verse emphasizes the importance of humility in prayer and the need to abstain from engaging in negative speech. It reminds us that our supplications should be accompanied by a pure heart and righteous actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in his enlightening saying highlights the significance of submissiveness during supplication. He acknowledges that being in a state of deep concentration and humility enhances the effectiveness of our prayers. When we approach Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) with a sincere and humble heart, our supplications are more likely to be answered.

Submissiveness in prayer is not merely a physical act but a reflection of the state of our hearts. It requires us to detach ourselves from worldly distractions and focus solely on our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a state of surrendering our will to the will of our Creator, acknowledging our dependence on Him, and recognizing His infinite power and mercy.

When we supplicate with submissiveness, we are more likely to experience a profound spiritual connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Our prayers become a means of seeking His guidance, mercy, and assistance in our lives. It is through this humble state that we can find solace, strength, and clarity in our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of practicing submissiveness in supplication are manifold. Firstly, it strengthens our faith and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we approach Him with humility and trust, we acknowledge His power and ability to fulfill our needs. This deepens our connection with Him and strengthens our belief in His divine presence and intervention in our lives.

Secondly, submissiveness in supplication helps us develop a sense of gratitude and contentment. When we recognize our dependence on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and acknowledge His blessings, we become more appreciative of the countless favors He has bestowed upon us. This gratitude leads to contentment and a greater sense of peace and tranquility in our hearts.

Lastly, practicing submissiveness in supplication cultivates humility and self-awareness. It reminds us of our limitations as human beings and our constant need for Allah's guidance and mercy. This humility allows us to reflect on our actions, seek forgiveness for our shortcomings, and strive for self-improvement.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of submissiveness in supplication. It emphasizes the need for a sincere and humble heart when approaching Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in prayer. By practicing submissiveness, we strengthen our connection with our Creator, deepen our faith, and experience the transformative power of supplication. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to supplicate with true submissiveness and accept our prayers.