Hadith #6396

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the divine guidance and wisdom bestowed upon a servant by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) when He intends goodness for them. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that when Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) desires the well-being of a servant, He inspires them to engage in three practices: talking less, eating less, and sleeping less.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (salah) "صَلاحَ" refers to goodness, rectitude, and righteousness. It encompasses all aspects of a person's life, including their spiritual, moral, and social well-being. The word (abd) "عَبْد" means servant, indicating that this guidance is for all believers who strive to worship and serve Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us explore the Quranic verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:56),

And cause not corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of invoking Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) with fear and hope, indicating the significance of maintaining a balance in speech and actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:67), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

My Lord, indeed my people have taken this Qur'an as [a thing] abandoned.

This verse highlights the negligence of people towards the Quran, indicating the need for believers to prioritize their speech and engage in meaningful and purposeful conversations.

The guidance provided in the Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran. Talking less allows individuals to focus on meaningful communication, avoiding idle talk and gossip. This practice helps in preserving one's time and energy, allowing them to engage in beneficial discussions and activities that contribute to their personal growth and the betterment of society.

Similarly, eating less is in line with the Quran's teachings on moderation and self-control. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31),

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

By consuming less, individuals develop self-discipline and avoid indulgence, which can lead to physical and spiritual harm.

Moreover, sleeping less allows individuals to utilize their time more effectively. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Furqan (25:47),

And He it is who has made the night for you as clothing and sleep [a means for] rest and has made the day a resurrection.

Sleep is a necessary part of human life, but excessive sleep can lead to laziness and wastage of time. By reducing the time spent in sleep, individuals can engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and fulfill their responsibilities more efficiently.

The guidance provided in this Hadith encourages Muslims to adopt a balanced and moderate lifestyle. By talking less, eating less, and sleeping less, individuals can focus on their spiritual growth, maintain self-discipline, and utilize their time effectively. This practice enables believers to align their actions with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). It leads to increased mindfulness, productivity, and a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the divine guidance bestowed upon a servant by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) when He intends goodness for them. By talking less, eating less, and sleeping less, individuals can align their actions with the teachings of the Quran and strive towards spiritual and moral excellence. This guidance promotes self-discipline, mindfulness, and effective time management, enabling believers to fulfill their obligations and seek closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to implement these teachings in our lives and attain His pleasure.