Hadith #2965

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he beautifully describes the pivotal role of the Ahl al-Bayt in Islam. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its meanings and implications in light of the Quran.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) begins by stating,

They are the supports of Islam and those entrusted with its protection.

The word (da'im) "دَعَائِمُ" refers to the pillars or foundations upon which something is built. Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that the Ahl al-Bayt are the pillars of Islam, the very foundation upon which the religion stands. They are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding and preserving the teachings of Islam, ensuring its continuity and protection from distortion and deviation.

To further understand the significance of this statement, we can turn to the Quran. In Surah Al-Hajj, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 22:40)

Indeed, Allah will support those who support Him. Indeed, Allah is Powerful and Exalted in Might.

This verse highlights the divine support and assistance granted to those who uphold and support the cause of Allah. The Ahl al-Bayt, being the supports of Islam, are therefore recipients of this divine support and assistance.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) continues,

Through them the truth is restored in its rightful place and falsehood is removed from its position with its tongue is severed from its root.

Here, he emphasizes the role of the Ahl al-Bayt in upholding and establishing the truth, while eradicating falsehood. The phrase

بِهِمْ عادَ الحَقُّ في نِصابِهِ وَانْزاحَ الباطِلُ عَنْ مُقامِهِ

highlights their ability to restore truth to its rightful position and displace falsehood from its standing.

The Quran provides numerous examples of the Ahl al-Bayt's role in upholding truth and combating falsehood. In Surah Al-Ahzab, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 33:33)

Indeed, Allah intends to repel from you the impurity [of sin], O Ahl al-Bayt, and purify you with [extensive] purification.

This verse highlights the divine purification and protection bestowed upon the Ahl al-Bayt, enabling them to repel impurity and falsehood.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states,

They have understood religion through reflection and contemplation, not by mere hearsay and [blind following of] what is narrated.

Here, he emphasizes the profound knowledge and understanding possessed by the Ahl al-Bayt. They do not rely on superficial knowledge or hearsay, but rather engage in deep reflection and contemplation to comprehend the true essence of religion.

This aspect of the Hadith aligns with the Quranic emphasis on seeking knowledge and understanding. In Surah Al-Zumar, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 39:41)

Indeed, We have sent down to you the Book for the people in truth. So whoever is guided - it is for [the benefit of] his soul; and whoever goes astray only goes astray to its detriment. And you are not a manager over them.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking guidance from the Quran, rather than blindly following what is narrated without understanding.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the pivotal role of the Ahl al-Bayt in Islam. They are the supports of Islam, entrusted with its protection, and are instrumental in upholding truth and eradicating falsehood. Their profound knowledge and understanding of religion, acquired through reflection and contemplation, sets them apart from mere followers of hearsay. As Muslims, we should strive to emulate their example and seek guidance from the Quran, reflecting deeply upon its teachings to attain a true understanding of our faith. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to comprehend and follow the path of the Ahl al-Bayt.