Hadith #4002

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The fruit of religion is strong conviction.

This enlightening Hadith emphasizes the importance of having firm belief and unwavering faith in the religion of Islam. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (thamaratu) "ثَمَرَةُ" in Arabic refers to the fruit or outcome of something. In this context, it signifies the result or consequence of practicing religion. The word (ad-deen) "الدِّينِ" refers to the comprehensive system of beliefs, practices, and values that constitute Islam. It encompasses all aspects of life, including faith, worship, morality, and social conduct. The word (quwwah) "قُوَّةُ" means strength or power, while (al-yaqeen) "اليَقِينِ" refers to certainty or conviction.

To understand the significance of strong conviction in religion, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15),

Indeed, the believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.

This verse highlights the importance of unwavering faith and conviction in the path of Allah. True believers are those who firmly believe in Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) without any doubts. They are steadfast in their commitment to the religion, dedicating their wealth and lives for the sake of Allah. Their strong conviction enables them to overcome challenges and obstacles in their journey of faith.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:256), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong. So whoever disbelieves in Taghut and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold with no break in it. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the importance of having strong conviction in the religion of Islam. It affirms that faith cannot be forced upon anyone, as true belief comes from within. Those who firmly reject falsehood and embrace the truth of Allah's oneness have firmly held onto the most reliable and unbreakable handhold. Their strong conviction in Allah and His religion becomes their source of guidance and strength.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the fruit of practicing religion is not merely performing rituals or adhering to outward practices. It goes beyond that, emphasizing the need for a deep and unshakable conviction in the teachings of Islam. This strong conviction is what enables a Muslim to remain steadfast in the face of challenges, to resist temptations, and to strive for righteousness.

When a Muslim possesses strong conviction, it becomes a driving force that motivates them to seek knowledge, to understand the wisdom behind the teachings of Islam, and to implement them in their daily lives. It empowers them to make informed decisions based on the principles of Islam, even in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, strong conviction in religion leads to a sense of inner peace and contentment. It provides a solid foundation upon which a Muslim can build their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure. It instills a sense of purpose and direction, guiding Muslims towards righteousness and moral excellence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the fruit of religion is strong conviction. This means that true success in practicing Islam lies not only in performing rituals, but also in developing a deep and unwavering belief in the teachings of Islam. This strong conviction empowers Muslims to face challenges, seek knowledge, and strive for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us all the strength to cultivate and nurture this strong conviction in our hearts.