مَنْ أقْعَدَتْهُ نِكايَةُ الأيّامِ أقامَتْهُ مَعُونَةُ الكِرامِ۔
One who is crippled by the hardship of the times is raised by the assistance of the noble-minded ones.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Important Events)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, and his companions.
The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:
مَنْ أقْعَدَتْهُ نِكايَةُ الأيّامِ أقامَتْهُ مَعُونَةُ الكِرامِ۔
This Hadith can be translated as:
One who is crippled by the hardship of the times is raised by the assistance of the noble-minded ones.
Let us delve into the meanings of some important words in this Hadith:
1. (aq'adathu) "أقْعَدَتْهُ" means "crippled" or "paralyzed." It refers to the state of being immobilized or hindered by the difficulties and challenges of life.
2. (nikayatu al-ayyam) "نِكايَةُ الأيّامِ" refers to the hardships or trials that one faces in the course of their life. It encompasses the various challenges, struggles, and adversities that can weigh a person down.
3. (aqamathu) "أقامَتْهُ" means "raised" or "elevated." It signifies the act of lifting someone up from their state of paralysis or helplessness.
4. (ma'unatu al-kiram) "مَعُونَةُ الكِرامِ" translates to
the assistance of the noble-minded ones.
It refers to the support, aid, and help that comes from those who possess noble character and virtuous qualities.
To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286):
Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear...
This verse reminds us that while life may present us with challenges and difficulties, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not burden us beyond our capacity to endure. Even in the face of hardships, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) provides us with the strength and resilience to overcome them.
Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Sharh (94:5-6), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:
Indeed, with hardship, there is relief. Indeed, with hardship, there is relief.
This verse emphasizes that alongside every difficulty, there is always ease and relief. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope and assistance waiting to uplift us.
Now, let us reflect on the exegesis of the Hadith itself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, teaches us that when we find ourselves crippled by the hardships of life, it is through the assistance of noble-minded individuals that we are raised and supported.
The noble-minded ones mentioned in the Hadith are those who possess virtuous qualities such as kindness, compassion, and generosity. They are individuals who extend a helping hand to those in need, offering support, guidance, and encouragement. Their noble character and selflessness act as a source of inspiration and strength for those who are struggling.
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of seeking assistance from such noble-minded individuals during challenging times. Their presence and support can provide solace, guidance, and practical help to overcome the obstacles that hinder us.
For example, during the Battle of Uhud, when the Muslims faced a severe setback, it was the noble-minded companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) who rallied together to support and uplift the Muslim community. Their unity, resilience, and selflessness helped the Muslims recover from their initial defeat and regain their strength.
In our own lives, we may encounter various hardships such as financial difficulties, health issues, or emotional struggles. During these times, it is crucial to seek the assistance of those who possess noble character and virtuous qualities. They can offer guidance, emotional support, and practical help to alleviate our burdens and help us navigate through the challenges we face.
Moreover, this Hadith reminds us of the importance of cultivating noble character within ourselves. By embodying qualities such as kindness, empathy, and generosity, we can become a source of assistance and support for others who are crippled by the hardships of life. Our actions and words can uplift and inspire those around us, enabling them to rise above their difficulties.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that when we are paralyzed by the hardships of life, the assistance of noble-minded individuals can raise us and provide the support we need. By seeking help from those who possess virtuous qualities and by embodying these qualities ourselves, we can find solace, strength, and guidance to overcome the challenges that come our way. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize the noble-minded ones and the ability to be a source of assistance for others.
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