Hadith #11050

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May 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,

قَدْ تَيَقَّظَ مَنِ اتَّعَظَ۔

which translates to

The one who accepts admonition has indeed awoken.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of being receptive to advice and guidance.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. (tayyaqqaẓa) "تَيَقَّظَ" comes from the root word (yaqaẓu) "يَقَظُ", which means to wake up or become alert. It implies a state of consciousness and awareness. (ittaʿaẓa) "اتَّعَظَ" is derived from the root word (ʿaẓẓa) "عَظَّ", which means to admonish or advise someone for their betterment.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of accepting admonition and guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197, Allah says,

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

This verse encourages believers to be conscious of Allah and to seek His guidance.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, verse 187, Allah says,

They ask you about the new moons. Say, 'They are measurements of time for the people and for Hajj.' And it is not righteousness to enter houses from the back, but righteousness is [in] one who fears Allah. And enter houses from their doors. And fear Allah that you may succeed.

This verse highlights the importance of following the guidance of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) in all aspects of life.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. When someone accepts admonition, it indicates their willingness to acknowledge their shortcomings and rectify their behavior. It is a sign of humility and self-awareness. Just as waking up from sleep brings us into a state of alertness, accepting admonition awakens us spiritually and intellectually.

By accepting admonition, we open ourselves to growth and improvement. We become receptive to the wisdom and guidance of others, allowing us to overcome our weaknesses and develop our strengths. This leads to personal and spiritual growth, as well as a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationship with Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that we should always be open to advice and guidance from others. It encourages us to seek knowledge and wisdom, and to continuously strive for self-improvement. By doing so, we awaken ourselves from the slumber of ignorance and complacency, and embark on a journey of enlightenment and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of accepting admonition and guidance. It reminds us to be receptive to advice and to continuously seek knowledge and self-improvement. By doing so, we awaken ourselves spiritually and intellectually, and strive to become better Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and humility to accept admonition and guide us on the path of righteousness.