Hadith #5869

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:

بِقَدْرِ عُلُوِّ الرَّفْعَةِ تَكُونُ نِكايَةُ الوَقْعَةِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

The harm that one faces in calamity is to the extent of [the loftiness of] one’s rank.

Let us now delve into the deeper meaning of this profound statement in light of the Quranic teachings.

Firstly, it is important to understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (nikāyah) "نِكايَةُ" refers to the harm or adversity that one experiences. It signifies the difficulties and challenges that befall an individual in times of calamity. The word (waq'ah) "وَقْعَةِ" refers to a sudden event or incident, often associated with a crisis or disaster.

Now, let us turn to the Quran for guidance and evidence to support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Inshirah (94:5-6):

Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.

This verse emphasizes that every difficulty is accompanied by relief and ease from Allah. It reminds us that no matter how severe the calamity, there is always a way out and a means of solace.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reassures us that Allah does not place a burden upon us that is beyond our capacity to endure. It highlights the concept of divine wisdom and justice, as Allah knows our capabilities and grants us the strength to face the challenges that come our way.

Now, let us reflect on the exegesis of the Hadith itself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is teaching us that the level of harm or adversity we face in times of calamity is directly proportional to our rank or status in the sight of Allah. This means that those who are closer to Allah, who have attained a higher spiritual station, may face greater trials and tribulations.

This concept can be understood in various ways. Firstly, it could refer to the fact that individuals who are more righteous and pious may attract the attention of those who oppose goodness and truth. As a result, they may face more opposition and harm from those who wish to extinguish their light.

Secondly, it could also imply that individuals who have been blessed with greater knowledge and understanding of the divine teachings may be tested with more difficult circumstances. This is because they have been entrusted with a greater responsibility to uphold and propagate the truth. Such individuals may face challenges that test their faith, knowledge, and ability to guide others.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder that the hardships we face in this world are not without purpose. They are a means of purification, growth, and elevation of our spiritual rank. Just as gold is refined through intense heat, our souls are refined through the trials and tribulations we endure. These difficulties serve as a means of strengthening our faith, increasing our patience, and developing our character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the harm we face in times of calamity is directly proportional to our spiritual rank and closeness to Allah. It reminds us that every difficulty is accompanied by ease, and that Allah does not burden us beyond our capacity. It encourages us to embrace the challenges we face, knowing that they are a means of growth and elevation in the sight of Allah. May we all strive to face our trials with patience, faith, and reliance on Allah's mercy and guidance.