مَنْ أقْبَلَ عَلَى النَّصِيحِ أعْرَضَ عَنِ القَبِيحِ۔
One who turns towards the sincere adviser turns away from evil.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Sincere Advice)
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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:
مَنْ أقْبَلَ عَلَى النَّصِيحِ أعْرَضَ عَنِ القَبِيحِ۔
This Hadith can be translated as:
One who turns towards the sincere adviser turns away from evil.
Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its implications in light of the Quran.
The word (nasih) "نَّصِيحِ" in this Hadith refers to a sincere adviser or counselor who offers genuine and well-intentioned advice. This adviser is someone who guides others towards righteousness and helps them avoid evil. The term (qabih) "قَبِيحِ" means evil or something that is morally reprehensible.
In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of seeking advice and guidance from those who are knowledgeable and sincere. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 159, Allah says: (Quran 3:159)
So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].
This verse highlights the significance of seeking consultation and advice from others, as it leads to better decision-making and fosters unity within the community. By turning towards a sincere adviser, one can benefit from their wisdom and guidance, ultimately leading to the avoidance of evil.
Additionally, the Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding in order to distinguish between good and evil. In Surah Al-Zumar, verse 9, Allah says: (Quran 39:9)
Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, making him an exemplary adviser. His profound understanding of the Quran and his close relationship with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) allowed him to guide the Muslim community towards righteousness and away from evil.
By turning towards a sincere adviser like Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), Muslims can gain valuable insights and avoid falling into the traps of evil. This Hadith serves as a reminder for us to seek guidance from those who possess knowledge and sincerity, as they can help us navigate the challenges of life and make choices that align with the teachings of Islam.
Moreover, the Hadith encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions. When we turn towards a sincere adviser, we are more likely to make choices that are pleasing to Allah and beneficial for ourselves and society. By avoiding evil, we protect ourselves from the negative consequences and harm that it brings.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking guidance from sincere advisers and turning away from evil. It reminds us to seek knowledge, consult others, and make decisions that align with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can lead a righteous life and protect ourselves from the harmful consequences of evil. May Allah guide us all to the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to seek advice from those who sincerely guide us.
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