Hadith #6014

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon the final Messenger, Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

الطاعة أوقى (أوفى) حرز

which translates to

Obedience is the most protective (or most reliable) safeguard.

Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (ta'ah) "طاعة" in this Hadith refers to obedience, compliance, and submission to the commands of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses not only fulfilling the obligatory acts of worship but also adhering to the teachings of Islam in all aspects of life. Obedience to Allah is the cornerstone of a Muslim's faith and the means to attain protection and security in this world and the Hereafter.

The word (awqa) "أوقى" or (awfa) "أوفى" in the Hadith can be understood in two ways. Firstly, it can mean "most protective" or "most reliable." This implies that obedience to Allah is the ultimate shield against the harms and trials of life. When we submit ourselves to the will of Allah, we are safeguarded from the detrimental consequences of disobedience and sin. It is through obedience that we find solace, tranquility, and protection from the evils of this world.

Secondly, (awqa) "أوقى" or (awfa) "أوفى" can also mean "most complete" or "most fulfilling." This interpretation highlights the idea that obedience to Allah is the most comprehensive and fulfilling way of life. By obeying His commands, we fulfill our purpose of creation and attain true success and contentment. It is through obedience that we establish a deep connection with our Creator and experience the ultimate fulfillment of our souls.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:208),

O you who have believed, enter into peace completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of complete submission and obedience to Allah, as it is the pathway to attaining true peace and protection from the whispers of Satan.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:102), Allah states,

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 obedience to Allah throughout our lives. By fearing Allah and obeying His commands, we ensure that our ultimate departure from this world is in a state of submission to Him, thus securing our salvation and protection in the Hereafter.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us that obedience to Allah is not merely a ritualistic act, but a comprehensive way of life. It is through obedience that we find protection from the trials and tribulations of this world, as well as fulfillment and contentment in our hearts. When we submit ourselves to the will of Allah, we establish a strong bond with our Creator and experience the true essence of faith.

Let us reflect upon the profound wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to make obedience to Allah the guiding principle of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and sincerity to be obedient to Him, and may He protect us from the harms and trials of this world.