Hadith #9462

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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his astonishment at the mistakes and divisions within the Muslim community regarding their religion. He highlights the lack of adherence to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the failure to follow the example of the Imam, who was appointed as his successor and vicegerent by divine decree.

The Imam emphasizes that these groups do not believe in the unseen, which includes matters of faith and the unseen world. They do not exercise restraint and self-discipline in avoiding sins and shortcomings. Instead, they act upon uncertainties and base their actions on their own desires and passions.

To understand the depth and significance of this hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of following the Prophet and the Ahl al-Bayt in the Quran. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 3:31)

Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.'

This verse clearly establishes the importance of following the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in order to attain the love and forgiveness of Allah. Similarly, in Surah Al-Ahzab, Allah says, (Quran 33:56)

Indeed, Allah confers blessing upon the Prophet, and His angels [ask Him to do so]. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace.

Here, Allah commands the believers to send blessings and peace upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), highlighting his elevated status and the importance of following his example.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further laments that these groups act on uncertainties and base their actions on their own opinions, as if each individual is their own leader. This highlights their lack of reliance on reliable sources and strong proofs.

In the Quran, Allah repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and guidance from reliable sources. In Surah Al-Nahl, Allah says, (Quran 16:43)

So ask the people of the message if you do not know.

This verse encourages Muslims to seek knowledge and guidance from those who possess knowledge of the message, i.e., the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt. It emphasizes the importance of turning to reliable sources for understanding and guidance.

The consequences of the mistakes and divisions within the Muslim community are far-reaching. It leads to confusion, disunity, and a departure from the true teachings of Islam. It weakens the Muslim ummah and hinders its progress and development.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the need for Muslims to return to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt. By following their example and adhering to the principles of Islam, Muslims can overcome their differences and unite as a strong and cohesive community.

In conclusion, this hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and beliefs. It emphasizes the importance of following the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt, seeking knowledge from reliable sources, and avoiding the pitfalls of personal opinions and desires. By doing so, Muslims can overcome divisions and strive towards unity and righteousness. May Allah guide us all on the straight path and grant us the wisdom to follow the teachings of the Prophet and his noble family.