Hadith #1842

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the concept of Jihad, which is often misunderstood and misinterpreted. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the best form of Jihad is the struggle of the self against its own lustful desires and the detachment from the fleeting pleasures of this world.

Let us delve into the words used in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (جِهَاد) "Jihad" refers to striving or struggling in the path of Allah. It encompasses various forms of struggle, including physical, intellectual, and spiritual efforts. Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) specifically emphasizes the Jihad of the self, which refers to the internal battle against one's own base desires and temptations.

The term (نَفْس) "nafs" refers to the self or the soul. It represents the innermost essence of a person, including their desires, inclinations, and passions. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to engage in the struggle against their own nafs, to overcome their carnal desires and temptations that may lead them astray from the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the need to wean oneself away from the pleasures of this world. The word (فِطَامُ) "fitnah" used here refers to the allurements and attractions of worldly possessions, material wealth, and temporary pleasures. These distractions can divert one's attention from the ultimate purpose of life, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah and strive for eternal success.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for further guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3):

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse highlights the importance of righteous actions and mutual counsel towards truth and patience.

The struggle against one's own desires and the detachment from worldly pleasures aligns with the Quranic teachings. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:216):

Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse emphasizes the need to overcome our personal inclinations and preferences for the sake of Allah's commandments.

The struggle against the self and the detachment from worldly pleasures have profound consequences and benefits. By engaging in this internal Jihad, Muslims can purify their souls, strengthen their faith, and attain a higher level of spiritual enlightenment. This struggle enables individuals to develop self-discipline, self-control, and a greater sense of awareness of their actions and intentions.

Moreover, by weaning oneself away from the pleasures of this world, Muslims can redirect their focus towards the eternal rewards and blessings promised by Allah. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46):

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and emphasizes the everlasting value of good deeds in the sight of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to engage in the struggle against their own desires and detach themselves from the fleeting pleasures of this world. This internal Jihad is a means of self-purification, spiritual growth, and ultimate success in the sight of Allah. By striving against our own nafs and redirecting our focus towards the eternal rewards, we can attain a higher level of consciousness and draw closer to our Creator. May Allah grant us the strength and guidance to engage in this noble struggle and may He bless us with success in this world and the Hereafter.