Hadith #2479

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The basis of goodness is abandoning obligation through it.

Let us delve into the meaning of this enlightening Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (milak) "مِلاكُ" in this Hadith refers to the foundation or basis of something. It signifies the core principle or essence upon which goodness is built. It is important to note that goodness here refers to acts of righteousness and virtuous deeds.

The term (al-ma'ruf) "المَعْرُوفِ" means that which is recognized and acknowledged as good and righteous. It encompasses all acts of kindness, justice, and moral excellence that are universally accepted and praised by both Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

The phrase (tarqu al-mann bihi) "تَرْكُ المَنِّ بِهِ" translates to

abandoning obligation through it.

Here, the word (mann) "مَنِّ" refers to an obligation or duty that is incumbent upon an individual. The Hadith suggests that true goodness lies in voluntarily going beyond the mere fulfillment of obligatory acts.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177),

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.

This verse emphasizes that true righteousness is not limited to mere rituals or outward displays of piety. It encompasses a comprehensive belief in Allah and His messengers, as well as the practical application of that belief through acts of charity and kindness towards others.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support in all our endeavors. It reminds us that true goodness lies in relying on Allah's strength and seeking His assistance in fulfilling our obligations and responsibilities.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in this Hadith encourages us to go beyond the minimum requirements of our obligations. It urges us to strive for excellence in our actions and to perform acts of kindness and righteousness that go above and beyond what is expected of us.

For example, fulfilling the obligatory acts of prayer, fasting, and giving charity are essential components of our faith. However, true goodness lies in going the extra mile by offering voluntary prayers, observing optional fasts, and giving additional charity to those in need.

By abandoning our comfort zones and voluntarily engaging in acts of goodness, we not only increase our own spiritual growth but also contribute to the betterment of society. Our actions become a means of spreading love, compassion, and justice, thus reflecting the true essence of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the foundation of goodness lies in surpassing the mere fulfillment of obligatory acts. It encourages Muslims to strive for excellence in their actions and to go above and beyond what is expected of them. By doing so, we not only strengthen our relationship with Allah but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah guide us all to embody the true essence of goodness and righteousness.