Hadith #10952

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,

الْوَرَعُ يَحْجُزُ عَنِ ارْتِكَابِ الْمَحَارِمِ

which translates to

Piety restrains one from committing acts that are forbidden.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of piety in preventing individuals from engaging in actions that are prohibited in Islam.

The word (al-wara') "الْوَرَعُ" in this Hadith refers to piety or righteousness. It encompasses a deep sense of God-consciousness and a sincere commitment to avoiding anything that displeases Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a state of being cautious and vigilant in one's actions, thoughts, and intentions, in order to uphold the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith highlights the significance of piety in restraining oneself from committing acts that are considered forbidden or "مَحَارِمِ". These forbidden acts include actions that are explicitly prohibited in the Quran and Sunnah, such as lying, stealing, backbiting, and engaging in illicit relationships. Piety acts as a protective shield, preventing individuals from succumbing to their desires and engaging in sinful behavior.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of piety and its role in guiding believers towards righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

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 (أَتْقَاكُمْ) of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that the most honorable and noble individuals in the sight of Allah are those who possess piety. It is not one's wealth, status, or lineage that determines their worth, but rather their level of righteousness and God-consciousness. Piety is the key to attaining true honor and success in the eyes of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands the believers to observe piety during the pilgrimage, saying,

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

This verse highlights that piety is not only essential in our daily lives but also during specific acts of worship, such as the pilgrimage. It serves as a reminder that the ultimate provision and protection for believers is their piety and fear of Allah. It is through piety that one can attain a deeper connection with Allah and fulfill their obligations as His servants.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith emphasizes the profound impact of piety in restraining individuals from committing forbidden acts. When one possesses true piety, they are motivated to align their actions with the teachings of Islam. They are conscious of the consequences of their actions and strive to avoid anything that may lead them astray.

Piety acts as a guiding force, enabling individuals to make choices that are in accordance with the principles of Islam. It instills a sense of accountability and responsibility, as believers recognize that their actions are being observed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This awareness serves as a constant reminder to refrain from engaging in sinful behavior and to strive for righteousness.

Moreover, the practice of piety has far-reaching consequences, not only on an individual level but also within society. When individuals uphold piety, they contribute to the creation of a righteous and just society. Their actions inspire others to follow the path of righteousness, leading to a collective commitment to upholding the values and principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of piety in restraining individuals from committing acts that are forbidden in Islam. Piety serves as a protective shield, guiding believers towards righteousness and preventing them from succumbing to their desires. It is through piety that individuals can attain a deeper connection with Allah and fulfill their obligations as His servants. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to cultivate true piety in our lives.