Hadith #11200

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنِ اتَّقَى اللَّهَ فازَ وَغَنِيَ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever fears Allah gains success and becomes prosperous.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (ittaqa) "اتَّقَى" in this Hadith is derived from the root word (waqa) "وَقَى", which means to protect, guard, or shield oneself. It encompasses the concept of piety, righteousness, and fear of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a comprehensive term that encompasses both the external actions and internal intentions of an individual.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of taqwa throughout the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 3:102)

O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him].

This verse highlights the significance of having a genuine and sincere fear of Allah, which leads to obedience and submission to His commands.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises numerous rewards and blessings for those who possess taqwa. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous (muttaqi) of you.

This verse emphasizes that the true measure of nobility and superiority lies in one's level of taqwa.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that whoever fears Allah gains success and becomes prosperous. This success and prosperity can be understood in multiple dimensions.

Firstly, taqwa leads to success in this world and the hereafter. When a person fears Allah and strives to live a righteous life, they are protected from the harms and pitfalls of this world. They are guided towards making choices that are pleasing to Allah, which ultimately leads to a successful and fulfilling life. Moreover, taqwa ensures success in the hereafter, as it is a means of attaining Allah's mercy, forgiveness, and eternal paradise.

Secondly, taqwa brings about prosperity in both material and spiritual aspects. Material prosperity refers to the blessings and provisions that Allah bestows upon those who fear Him. It does not necessarily mean accumulating wealth, but rather having contentment and sufficiency in what Allah has provided. Spiritual prosperity, on the other hand, refers to the tranquility, peace, and spiritual growth that one experiences through their connection with Allah. It is the richness of the heart and the elevation of the soul.

An example of this can be seen in the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) in the Quran. Despite facing numerous trials and tribulations, Prophet Yusuf maintained his taqwa and remained steadfast in his devotion to Allah. As a result, he was ultimately granted success and prosperity. He was appointed as the minister of Egypt, gained power and authority, and was reunited with his family. This exemplifies how taqwa can lead to both worldly success and spiritual prosperity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of taqwa in attaining success and prosperity. It is a comprehensive concept that encompasses both external actions and internal intentions. By fearing Allah and striving to live a righteous life, we can experience success in this world and the hereafter, as well as material and spiritual prosperity. May Allah grant us the ability to develop true taqwa and reap its abundant rewards.