Hadith #10489

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:

مَنْ مَقَتَ نَفْسَهُ أحَبَّهُ اللّهُ۔

This can be translated as:

Whoever loathes his [carnal] soul is loved by Allah.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (maqata) "مَقَتَ" refers to the act of loathing or detesting. It implies a strong dislike or aversion towards something. The word (nafsahu) "نَفْسَهُ" refers to one's own self or soul. It encompasses the desires, inclinations, and egoistic tendencies within a person.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of purifying one's soul and striving against its negative inclinations. In Surah Ash-Shams, Allah says, (Quran 91:7-10)

And [by] the soul and He who proportioned it. And inspired it [with discernment of] its wickedness and its righteousness. He has succeeded who purifies it, and he has failed who instills it [with corruption].

This ayah highlights the struggle within the soul, between its inclination towards righteousness and its inclination towards wickedness. It is through the purification of the soul that one can attain success. By loathing the negative aspects of one's self, a person can strive towards righteousness and earn the love of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah says, (Quran 28:67)

But as for one who had repented, believed, and done righteousness, it is promised by Allah that he will be among the successful.

This ayah emphasizes the importance of repentance, belief, and righteous actions. When a person recognizes the flaws within themselves and strives to rectify them, they are on the path to success and the love of Allah.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to introspect and evaluate their own selves. It encourages us to be self-critical and to detest the negative aspects of our character, such as arrogance, greed, and selfishness. By acknowledging and loathing these negative traits, we can take the necessary steps to purify our souls and seek the pleasure and love of Allah.

When a person loathes their own soul, it is an indication of their humility and self-awareness. It shows that they are aware of their weaknesses and are actively striving to overcome them. This self-reflection and self-improvement is a fundamental aspect of the Islamic teachings.

The consequences of loathing one's own soul are profound. It leads to a transformation of character, as one becomes more conscious of their actions and strives to align them with the teachings of Islam. By purifying the soul, a person becomes more inclined towards acts of worship, kindness, and compassion. They become a source of goodness and love in the world, earning the love and pleasure of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement. By loathing our negative inclinations and striving towards righteousness, we can purify our souls and earn the love of Allah. Let us strive to be self-critical, constantly seeking to better ourselves and align our actions with the teachings of Islam. May Allah guide us on this path of self-improvement and grant us His love and pleasure.