Hadith #8384

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his companions.

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

قَضاءُ اللَّوازِمِ مِنْ أفْضَلِ المَكارِمِ۔

This can be translated as,

Fulfilling the obligatory is from the most noble of actions.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (qada) "قَضاءُ" refers to the act of fulfilling or completing something. It implies carrying out a duty or obligation in a manner that is required or expected. The word (al-lawazim) "اللَّوازِمِ" refers to the obligatory acts or duties that are incumbent upon every Muslim. These are the actions that have been prescribed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His Messenger (ﷺ) and are necessary for the spiritual growth and development of a believer.

The statement of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and virtue of fulfilling these obligatory acts. It emphasizes that fulfilling one's religious duties is not only a necessary requirement but also a noble and praiseworthy action. By fulfilling our obligations, we demonstrate our submission and obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:43)

And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience].

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the obligations of prayer and giving zakah, which are among the fundamental duties of a Muslim. By performing these acts, we not only fulfill our obligations but also strengthen our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the Muslim community.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hajj, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (22:30)

That [has been commanded], and whoever honors the sacred ordinances of Allah - it is best for him in the sight of his Lord.

This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring and fulfilling the sacred ordinances of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By fulfilling our obligations, we demonstrate our reverence and respect for the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure.

Fulfilling the obligatory acts not only brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also has profound effects on our character and spirituality. When we consistently fulfill our obligations, it becomes a habit and shapes our behavior. It instills discipline, responsibility, and a sense of accountability in our lives. Moreover, fulfilling the obligatory acts helps us develop a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and increases our taqwa (God-consciousness).

For example, when we establish the obligatory prayers, we are constantly reminded of our purpose in life and our dependence on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It helps us maintain a constant connection with our Creator and seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives. Similarly, when we fulfill the obligation of fasting during the month of Ramadan, we experience self-discipline, empathy towards the less fortunate, and a heightened sense of spirituality.

On the other hand, neglecting the obligatory acts can have detrimental consequences. It can lead to spiritual stagnation, a weakened relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and a loss of direction in life. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran, (107:4-5)

So woe to those who pray [but] who are heedless of their prayer.

This verse serves as a reminder that merely going through the motions of fulfilling the obligations without true presence of heart and sincerity is not sufficient.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance and virtue of fulfilling the obligatory acts. It reminds us that fulfilling our religious duties is not only a necessary requirement but also a noble and praiseworthy action. By fulfilling these obligations, we demonstrate our submission and obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure. The Quranic verses mentioned support this exegesis by highlighting the significance of fulfilling the obligatory acts and the consequences of neglecting them. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to fulfill our obligations and seek His pleasure in all that we do.