Hadith #5942

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 and insightful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises us to adopt a humble and submissive attitude when faced with our own weaknesses. The word (da'ufta) "ضَعُفْتَ" refers to a state of weakness or vulnerability. It can be physical, emotional, or spiritual weakness that a person experiences at different points in their life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to respond to our weaknesses by being weak in the disobedience of Allah. The word (ma'asi) "مَعاصِي" refers to acts of disobedience or sins. It encompasses all actions, thoughts, and intentions that go against the commandments of Allah.

To understand the depth and significance of this advice, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 45: (Quran 2:45)

And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah]

This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and submission to Allah in times of difficulty. When we are weak, we should turn to Allah in prayer and seek His guidance and support.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further advises us to be weak in the disobedience of Allah. This means that even in our moments of weakness, we should strive to avoid committing sins and transgressions. We should not let our weaknesses become an excuse for indulging in sinful behavior. Instead, we should use our weaknesses as a motivation to seek forgiveness, repentance, and spiritual growth.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra, verse 32: (Quran 17:32)

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way

This verse reminds us of the importance of avoiding sinful actions, even when we may be tempted or weak. It is a reminder that our weaknesses should not be an excuse for engaging in immoral behavior.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice carries profound wisdom and practical guidance for all Muslims. When we are faced with our own weaknesses, whether they be physical, emotional, or spiritual, we should not let them lead us towards disobedience to Allah. Instead, we should use our weaknesses as a means to strengthen our relationship with Allah and seek His forgiveness and guidance.

For example, if a person is struggling with anger issues and finds themselves becoming weak in controlling their anger, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises them to be weak in the disobedience of Allah. This means that even in moments of anger, they should strive to control their actions and words, avoiding any sinful behavior such as verbal abuse or physical harm. They should seek Allah's help through patience and prayer, and strive to improve their character and control their anger.

Similarly, if a person is facing financial difficulties and finds themselves becoming weak in their trust in Allah's provision, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises them to be weak in the disobedience of Allah. This means that even in times of financial hardship, they should not resort to unlawful means of earning or hoarding wealth. They should trust in Allah's plan and seek lawful ways to improve their situation, while avoiding any sinful actions such as fraud or theft.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this hadith encourages us to adopt a humble and submissive attitude when faced with our own weaknesses. We should use our weaknesses as a motivation to seek forgiveness, repentance, and spiritual growth, rather than succumbing to disobedience to Allah. By being weak in the disobedience of Allah, we can strengthen our relationship with Him and strive towards becoming better Muslims. May Allah guide us all and help us overcome our weaknesses.