Hadith #10496

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

مَنْ أشْفَقَ عَلى نَفْسِهِ لَمْ يَظْلِمْ غَيْرَهُ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and self-accountability. It highlights the idea that one who is conscious of their own actions and fears the consequences of their own deeds will not oppress or wrong others.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meaning of some key words. (ashfaqa) "أشْفَقَ" means to fear or be concerned about something. In this context, it refers to an individual's fear for their own soul, their own well-being, and their own accountability before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). (nafsihi) "نَفْسِهِ" means one's own self or soul. (lam yazlim) "لَمْ يَظْلِمْ" means to not oppress or wrong others. (ghayrah) "غَيْرَهُ" means others or someone else.

The exegesis of this Hadith can be found in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-accountability and the consequences of one's actions. In Surah Al-Isra (17:15), Allah says,

Whoever is guided is only guided for [the benefit of] his soul. And whoever errs only errs against it. And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another. And never would We punish until We sent a messenger.

This verse highlights the individual responsibility each person has for their own actions. It emphasizes that the consequences of one's deeds are borne solely by the individual themselves. Similarly, in Surah Al-An'am (6:164), Allah states,

And every soul earns not [blame] except against itself, and no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another.

These verses from the Quran support the message of the Hadith, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and self-accountability. When a person fears for their own soul and is conscious of their own actions, they become more aware of the consequences of their deeds. This awareness prevents them from oppressing or wronging others, as they understand the weight of their own actions and the impact it can have on their own spiritual well-being.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for self-improvement and self-discipline. When an individual is constantly aware of their own actions and their potential consequences, they are motivated to engage in righteous behavior and refrain from oppressing others. This fear for one's own soul acts as a deterrent against committing acts of injustice or wrongdoing.

Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Imam Ali's deep understanding of human nature and the importance of self-reflection is evident in this Hadith. His teachings and guidance serve as a source of inspiration for Muslims, reminding them of the importance of self-accountability and the avoidance of oppression.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

One who fears for his soul does not oppress others

emphasizes the significance of self-reflection and self-accountability. It reminds Muslims that by being conscious of their own actions and fearing the consequences, they are motivated to refrain from oppressing or wronging others. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize individual responsibility and accountability. May we all strive to be individuals who fear for our own souls and refrain from oppressing others, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our actions.