Hadith #4007

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) emphasizes four key aspects that are essential for the consolidation and completeness of one's faith. These aspects are sincerity of action, cutting short false aspirations, doing good to others, and refraining from ugly deeds.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of these words and explore the Quranic verses that support and shed light on the profound wisdom contained within this Hadith.

Firstly, the Hadith mentions "sincerity of action" or "إخلاص العمل". Sincerity in our actions refers to performing them solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure and not desiring any worldly gain or recognition. This concept is beautifully highlighted in the Quran in Surah Al-Zumar, verse 2, where Allah says, (Quran 39:2)

Indeed, We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth. So worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion.

Secondly, the Hadith mentions

cutting short false aspirations

or "تَقْصِير الأمَل". This refers to abandoning unrealistic and baseless hopes and desires that distract us from the true purpose of our existence. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 23, (Quran 57:23)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

Thirdly, the Hadith mentions

doing good to others

or "بَذْل الإحسان". This encompasses acts of kindness, charity, and benevolence towards our fellow human beings. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of doing good deeds and treating others with kindness. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83, Allah says, (Quran 2:83)

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.'

Lastly, the Hadith highlights the importance of refraining from ugly deeds or "الكَفِّ عَنِ القَبيحِ". This refers to abstaining from sinful actions and behaviors that are displeasing to Allah. The Quran repeatedly warns against engaging in evil deeds and encourages us to strive for righteousness. In Surah Al-A'raf, verse 33, Allah says, (Quran 7:33)

Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed - and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.'

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see the profound wisdom and guidance it offers. By focusing on sincerity in our actions, abandoning false aspirations, doing good to others, and refraining from ugly deeds, we can strengthen our faith and lead a righteous and fulfilling life. These teachings are not only applicable to Shia Muslims but are universal principles that resonate with all believers.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to implement these teachings in our lives, and may He bless us with sincerity, righteousness, and success in this world and the Hereafter.