Hadith #11150

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The cause of the probity of [one’s] faith is God-wariness.

This thought-provoking saying highlights the importance of taqwa, which can be translated as God-wariness or piety, in strengthening and purifying one's faith.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. "Sabab" refers to the cause or reason behind something, while "salah" denotes probity or righteousness. "Al-Iman" refers to faith, which encompasses belief in the heart, affirmation by the tongue, and actions performed with sincerity. Finally, "taqwa" refers to being conscious of Allah's presence, fearing His punishment, and striving to fulfill His commands.

The Quran emphasizes the significance of taqwa in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights that taqwa is the best provision for the journey of life, indicating its central role in the development of a strong faith.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 (muttaqi) of you.

This verse emphasizes that the measure of nobility and superiority in the sight of Allah is based on taqwa, further highlighting its importance.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that taqwa is not only a consequence of faith but also a cause for its enhancement. When one possesses taqwa, they are more inclined to adhere to the teachings of Islam, avoid sinful actions, and strive for righteousness. Taqwa acts as a guiding light, leading individuals towards the path of righteousness and strengthening their faith.

By being conscious of Allah's presence and fearing His punishment, individuals are motivated to fulfill their obligations and refrain from sinful acts. This consciousness serves as a constant reminder of the consequences of one's actions, both in this world and the Hereafter. It instills a sense of accountability and responsibility, encouraging Muslims to make choices that align with the teachings of Islam.

The development of taqwa has profound consequences for individuals and society as a whole. On an individual level, taqwa leads to spiritual growth, increased self-discipline, and a heightened sense of awareness. It enables Muslims to resist temptations and make choices that are pleasing to Allah, thereby purifying their hearts and strengthening their faith.

Moreover, taqwa plays a crucial role in maintaining social harmony and justice. When individuals possess taqwa, they are more inclined to treat others with kindness, fairness, and compassion. Taqwa acts as a safeguard against injustice, as it prevents individuals from oppressing others or engaging in dishonest practices. It promotes a sense of accountability and responsibility towards fellow human beings, fostering a just and harmonious society.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of cultivating taqwa in their lives. It is through taqwa that one can attain probity in their faith and strengthen their relationship with Allah. By constantly striving to increase their God-wariness, Muslims can enhance their faith, purify their hearts, and lead a life in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to develop and maintain taqwa in our lives, and may He bless us with a strong and steadfast faith. Ameen.