Hadith #6876

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises the Muslims to uphold two important virtues: chastity and trustworthiness. The Imam emphasizes that these qualities are not only honorable but also essential for leading a righteous and fulfilling life.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. "Biluzum" refers to the act of adhering or holding fast to something. "Al-'iffah" signifies chastity, modesty, and purity, both in thought and action. "Al-amana" denotes trustworthiness, integrity, and fulfilling one's obligations faithfully.

To further understand the significance of these virtues, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:5-6):

And they who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed - But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors.

This verse emphasizes the importance of chastity and self-restraint in matters of intimacy, highlighting the need to protect oneself from indulging in unlawful desires.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:1), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands:

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts.

This verse emphasizes the significance of fulfilling one's obligations and being trustworthy in all dealings, whether they are personal, financial, or professional. Trustworthiness is a fundamental aspect of a Muslim's character, as it builds strong relationships and fosters a just society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that these virtues are not limited to one's private or public life but encompass both aspects. In secret, chastity and trustworthiness manifest as guarding one's thoughts, desires, and actions from impurity and dishonesty. This includes refraining from engaging in forbidden acts, such as adultery, theft, or deceit, even when no one is watching.

In public, these virtues are demonstrated through one's behavior, speech, and interactions with others. A person who practices chastity and trustworthiness openly displays honesty, sincerity, and integrity in their dealings. They fulfill their responsibilities with dedication and do not compromise their principles for personal gain.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) goes on to highlight the benefits and rewards of espousing these virtues. When we practice chastity and trustworthiness, we earn the respect and trust of others. Our actions become a source of inspiration and motivation for those around us. Moreover, these qualities bring about inner peace, contentment, and a sense of fulfillment.

Conversely, neglecting these virtues can have severe consequences. Engaging in immoral or dishonest behavior not only harms oneself but also damages relationships, erodes trust, and undermines the fabric of society. It leads to a loss of self-respect and tarnishes one's reputation. Moreover, indulging in forbidden acts can distance us from Allah's mercy and blessings.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of upholding chastity and trustworthiness in all aspects of our lives. We should strive to purify our thoughts, actions, and intentions, both in private and public. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to embody these noble qualities and reap their countless blessings.