Hadith #4012

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, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

خَيْرُ أُمُورِ الدّينِ الوَرَعُ۔

This can be translated as,

The best course of religion is piety.

In this Hadith, the word (wara') "ورع" is of particular importance. It refers to the concept of piety, righteousness, and the fear of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of piety and righteousness in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah says,

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

This verse highlights that the ultimate provision for our journey in this world is not material wealth or possessions, but rather piety. It is through piety that we attain true success and protection from the temptations and trials of life. Similarly, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah says,

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 of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true nobility and superiority lie in righteousness and piety, not in worldly status or lineage. It is the level of one's consciousness of Allah and adherence to His commands that determines their true worth.

Now, let us delve deeper into the exegesis of the Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the significance of piety as the best course of religion. Piety encompasses various aspects of a believer's life, including their thoughts, actions, and intentions. It is a state of constant awareness of Allah's presence and a sincere desire to please Him in all aspects of life.

When a Muslim embodies piety, they become conscious of their responsibilities towards Allah, themselves, and others. They strive to fulfill their obligations, avoid sins, and seek forgiveness for their shortcomings. Piety serves as a guiding principle that shapes one's behavior, decisions, and interactions with others.

The consequences of practicing piety are profound. It leads to a life of righteousness, sincerity, and humility. It strengthens the relationship between the individual and Allah, fostering a deep sense of spirituality and connection. Piety also has a positive impact on society, as it promotes justice, compassion, and ethical conduct. It encourages Muslims to fulfill their duties towards their families, communities, and the wider world.

Furthermore, the practice of piety brings about numerous rewards and blessings in this world and the Hereafter. Allah promises His guidance, protection, and mercy to those who strive to be pious. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:29), Allah says,

O you who have believed, if you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion and will remove from you your misdeeds and forgive you. And Allah is the possessor of great bounty.

This verse emphasizes that piety is not only a means of attaining salvation in the Hereafter but also a source of guidance and purification in this life. It enables believers to distinguish between right and wrong, and it serves as a means of seeking forgiveness and redemption for their sins.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of piety as the best course of religion. Piety encompasses a deep sense of righteousness, fear of Allah, and adherence to His commands. It is through piety that Muslims can attain true success, nobility, and closeness to Allah. By embodying piety in their thoughts, actions, and intentions, Muslims can lead a life of righteousness, sincerity, and humility, both in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the path of piety and grant us success in this life and the next.