Hadith #3168

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, "الإخلاص فوزٌ" which translates to

Sincerity is [a means of attaining] success.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (Ikhlas) "إخلاص" in Arabic refers to sincerity, purity, and singularity of intention. It is derived from the root word (khalaṣa) "خَلَصَ", which means to purify or to make something pure. In the context of this Hadith, Ikhlas refers to the act of performing deeds solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), without any ulterior motives or desires for recognition or worldly gains.

The concept of sincerity is emphasized in numerous verses of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:11-14),

Say, 'Indeed, I have been commanded to worship Allah, sincere in my religion. And I was commanded to be the first [among you] of the Muslims.' Say, 'Indeed I fear, if I should disobey my Lord, the punishment of a tremendous Day.' Say, 'Allah [alone] do I worship, sincere to Him in my religion.'

These verses highlight the importance of sincerity in worship and obedience to Allah. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt, including Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), exemplified this sincerity in their actions and teachings. They dedicated their lives to the service of Allah and the betterment of humanity, without seeking any personal gain or recognition.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that sincerity is not only a means of attaining success in the Hereafter but also in this worldly life. When we perform our actions with pure intentions, seeking only the pleasure of Allah, we are more likely to achieve success and fulfillment in our endeavors.

For example, if a person engages in acts of charity sincerely, without seeking praise or recognition, their actions will have a greater impact and reward. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:272),

Not upon you, [O Muhammad], is [responsibility for] their guidance, but Allah guides whom He wills. And whatever good you [believers] spend is for yourselves, and you do not spend except seeking the countenance of Allah. And whatever you spend of good - it will be fully repaid to you, and you will not be wronged.

This verse emphasizes that acts of charity done sincerely for the sake of Allah will be rewarded abundantly. The success attained through sincerity is not limited to material gains but also includes spiritual growth, contentment, and the blessings of Allah in this life and the Hereafter.

Moreover, sincerity in our worship and actions leads to a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we perform acts of worship with pure intentions, we are more likely to experience the spiritual benefits and closeness to Allah. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'arij (70:19-21),

Indeed, mankind was created anxious: When evil touches him, impatient, and when good touches him, withholding [of it]. Except the observers of prayer - Those who are constant in their prayer.

These verses highlight the importance of sincerity in prayer and the positive impact it has on our well-being. When we approach our prayers with sincerity, focusing solely on our connection with Allah, we find solace, peace, and tranquility in our hearts.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that sincerity is the key to success, both in this life and the Hereafter. By purifying our intentions and performing our actions solely for the sake of Allah, we can attain true success and fulfillment. Let us strive to cultivate sincerity in all aspects of our lives, seeking the pleasure of Allah above all else. May Allah grant us the ability to be sincere in our worship and actions, and may He bless us with success in this life and the Hereafter.