Hadith #11024

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

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

الْوَعْظُ النَّافِعُ مَا رَدَعَ

which translates to

The beneficial admonition is that which deters [from sin].

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep wisdom and guidance for Muslims of all times.

Let us first delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (al-wa'z) "الْوَعْظُ" refers to admonition or advice, which is aimed at guiding individuals towards righteousness and deterring them from sinful actions. (an-nafi') "النَّافِعُ" means beneficial or advantageous, indicating that the admonition should have a positive impact on the individual's spiritual growth and moral conduct. (ma rad'a) "مَا رَدَعَ" means that which deters or prevents one from committing sins.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of Taqwa, which can be understood as a state of consciousness and mindfulness of Allah's presence, leading to righteous actions and avoidance of sins. The beneficial admonition mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the Quranic concept of Taqwa, as it aims to deter individuals from sinful behavior and guide them towards righteousness.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Asr, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (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 advising one another towards truth and patience. The beneficial admonition mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) can be seen as a manifestation of this Quranic guidance, as it encourages Muslims to advise and remind each other to stay away from sin and adhere to the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds great significance in our daily lives as Muslims. It reminds us of the responsibility we have towards one another in guiding and advising each other towards the path of righteousness. The beneficial admonition is not simply a reprimand or criticism, but rather a sincere and compassionate reminder that aims to prevent individuals from committing sins and encourages them to improve their moral conduct.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of self-reflection and self-correction. When we receive beneficial admonition, it is essential to reflect upon our actions and assess whether they align with the teachings of Islam. It is through this introspection that we can recognize our shortcomings and strive to rectify them. By heeding the beneficial admonition, we can protect ourselves from the pitfalls of sin and work towards spiritual growth and moral excellence.

Furthermore, this Hadith emphasizes the role of knowledge in providing beneficial admonition. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was renowned for his vast knowledge and wisdom. His words serve as a reminder that the admonition we offer should be rooted in knowledge and understanding of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It is through this knowledge that we can provide meaningful and impactful guidance to our fellow Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of offering beneficial admonition that deters individuals from sin. This admonition should be rooted in knowledge, compassion, and a sincere desire to guide one another towards righteousness. By heeding this advice, we can protect ourselves from the harms of sin and strive towards spiritual growth and moral excellence. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to offer and accept beneficial admonition, and may He guide us all on the path of righteousness.