Hadith #11192

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the qualities and characteristics of a God-fearing individual. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith, exploring its meanings and implications in light of the Quran.

The Hadith begins with the phrase (lil-muttaqi) "لِلْمُتَّقي", which refers to the person who possesses taqwa, or God-consciousness. Taqwa is a fundamental concept in Islam, encompassing a deep awareness of Allah's presence, obedience to His commands, and avoidance of His prohibitions. It is the foundation upon which a believer builds their relationship with Allah and strives for righteousness.

The Hadith then mentions three outcomes or qualities that arise from taqwa. The first is (huda fi rashad) "هُديً في رَشاد", which can be translated as

guidance towards the right path.

This implies that the God-fearing individual is bestowed with divine guidance, enabling them to discern between right and wrong, truth and falsehood. This guidance comes from Allah, who promises in the Quran:

(Quran 2:257)

Allah is the ally of those who believe. He brings them out from darknesses into the light.

The second outcome mentioned in the Hadith is (taharrujun 'an fasad) "تَحَرُّجٌ عَنْ فَساد", which can be understood as "restraint from corruption." The muttaqi person is inclined to refrain from engaging in any form of corruption, immorality, or wrongdoing. This restraint arises from their fear of displeasing Allah and their commitment to upholding justice and righteousness. The Quran states:

(Quran 17:32)

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

The third quality mentioned in the Hadith is (hirsun fi islahi ma'ad)

حِرْصٌ في إصْلاحِ مَعاد

which can be translated as

a strong desire for reforming the Hereafter.

The muttaqi individual is motivated and eager to work towards rectifying their actions and preparing for the eternal life to come. They are conscious of the consequences of their deeds and strive to improve their relationship with Allah. The Quran reminds us:

(Quran 79:40-41)

But as for he who feared the position of his Lord and prevented the soul from [unlawful] inclination, then indeed, Paradise will be [his] refuge.

This Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the profound qualities that arise from taqwa. The God-fearing individual is guided by Allah, restrained from corruption, and motivated to reform their actions for the Hereafter. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate taqwa in their hearts and strive for righteousness in all aspects of their lives.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we are encouraged to assess our own levels of taqwa and strive to strengthen our relationship with Allah. We should seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), following their example in embodying the qualities mentioned in this Hadith.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to develop taqwa and strive for righteousness in all aspects of our lives. May He guide us towards the right path, protect us from corruption, and grant us success in the Hereafter. And may peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.