pauseplay_arrow

أنَا وَضَعْتُ بِكَلْكَلِ (بِكَلاكِلِ) العَرَبِ، وكَسَرْتُ نَواجِمَ (قُرُونَ) رَبِيعَةَ ومُضَرَ۔

I put the chests of the Arab [warriors] on the ground and broke the backs (or the protruding horns) of the tribes of Rabī‘ah and Mu 24. ar.

Audio

Photo

Save
I put the chests of the Arab [warriors] on the ground and broke the backs...

— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Muhammad (S) And His Progeny)

Personal Reflection

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes his valor and strength in battle. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (kalakil) "كَلْكَلِ" refers to the chests or hearts of the Arab warriors. It symbolizes their courage, determination, and readiness for battle. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that he faced the strongest and bravest warriors of the Arab tribes, and he was able to overpower them.

The phrase (nawajima Rabī‘ah wa Mudar) "نَوَاجِمَ رَبِيعَةَ وَمُضَرَ" refers to the tribes of Rabī‘ah and Mudar. These tribes were known for their strength and valor, and breaking their backs or their protruding horns symbolizes the defeat and subjugation of these powerful tribes.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that support and shed light on the meanings of this Hadith.

In Surah Al-Anfal (8:30), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse highlights the divine assistance and support given to the Prophet Muhammad () and his companions, including Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), in their battles against the disbelievers. It demonstrates that Allah's plan is always superior and ultimately prevails.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of unity, obedience to Allah and His Messenger, and patience in the face of challenges. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified these qualities in his battles, as he remained steadfast and unwavering in his commitment to the cause of Islam.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we can draw several profound insights. Firstly, it highlights the exceptional bravery and military prowess of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His unparalleled skills in battle and his unwavering devotion to the cause of Islam enabled him to overcome even the most formidable opponents.

Secondly, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of courage and determination in the face of adversity. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) faced numerous challenges and enemies throughout his life, yet he never wavered in his commitment to the truth. His example teaches us the value of steadfastness and resilience in the pursuit of righteousness.

Lastly, this Hadith underscores the divine assistance and support that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grants to His righteous servants. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) victories were not solely the result of his own strength and skill, but rather a manifestation of Allah's favor and guidance. It reminds us that success ultimately comes from Allah, and we should always seek His help and rely on His plan.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a testament to his exceptional bravery and military prowess. It highlights the importance of courage, determination, and reliance on Allah in the face of challenges. May we all strive to embody these qualities in our own lives and seek the divine assistance and support of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our endeavors.

. : . (Readers are advised to verify the sources mentioned above, and to independently research for an accurate understanding of Hadith. Remember, personal research and seeking guidance from scholars are essential in gaining a better insight. Please, do contact us if you find any wrong citations or explanations.)

Join our community to daily receive one short Hadith of Imam Ali a.s on your device.