Hadith #6009

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الطاعة تستدر المثوبة" which translates to

Obedience brings forth [divine] reward.

In this profound statement, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and consequences of obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His commands.

The word (al-ta'ah) "الطاعة" refers to obedience, submission, and compliance. It encompasses the act of willingly adhering to the commands of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and following the teachings of His Messenger (ﷺ). This obedience is not merely a superficial act, but rather a sincere and wholehearted submission to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The word (tastadir) "تستدر" can be understood as "brings forth" or "leads to." It signifies the direct correlation between obedience and the manifestation of divine reward. It implies that obedience is the key that unlocks the door to receiving the blessings and rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of obedience and its connection to divine rewards. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:13)

And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger, He will admit him to gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever. And that is the great attainment

This verse highlights that obedience to Allah and His Messenger is the means to attain eternal bliss in Paradise. It emphasizes the everlasting nature of the rewards that await those who submit to the divine commandments. Similarly, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 2:112)

Indeed, those who submit themselves to Allah and do good, they will have their reward with their Lord. And there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve

Here, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures the believers that their obedience and righteous deeds will be rewarded by Him. This verse provides solace and reassurance to Muslims, reminding them that their efforts in obeying Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will not go unnoticed or unrewarded.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims of the profound connection between obedience and divine rewards. It highlights that obedience is not a burden or a mere duty, but rather a pathway to attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the blessings of the Hereafter.

When we reflect on this Hadith, we realize that obedience is not limited to performing obligatory acts of worship, such as prayer and fasting. It encompasses all aspects of our lives, including our interactions with others, our adherence to moral values, and our commitment to justice and righteousness.

By obeying Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we align ourselves with the divine will and purpose. This obedience brings about a transformation within us, shaping our character and guiding our actions. It instills in us a sense of discipline, humility, and gratitude.

Moreover, obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has far-reaching consequences beyond the individual. It has the power to inspire and influence others, creating a ripple effect of goodness and righteousness in society. When Muslims collectively strive to obey Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), they become a force for positive change, promoting justice, compassion, and unity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound connection between obedience and divine rewards. It encourages Muslims to embrace obedience as a means of attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the blessings of the Hereafter. By adhering to the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we not only secure our own salvation but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to be obedient servants and recipients of His divine rewards.