Hadith #3437

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 our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

ما نَدِمَ مَنِ اسْتَخارَ۔

This can be translated as,

He who seeks what is best [in his actions] does not regret.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the words in this Hadith. The word (nadima) "نَدِمَ" means to regret or feel remorse. It is a feeling of sorrow or disappointment that arises when one realizes that their actions or decisions have led to negative consequences. On the other hand, (istakhara) "استَخارَ" refers to seeking guidance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in making a decision. It is a process of supplicating to Allah and seeking His divine guidance before embarking on a particular course of action.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse highlights the fact that human beings may not always have complete knowledge or foresight regarding the consequences of their actions. What may seem desirable or beneficial to us at first glance may actually lead to regret and disappointment in the long run. Conversely, what may appear unfavorable or undesirable to us initially may turn out to be the best course of action.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of wisdom and knowledge, emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's guidance before making decisions. By doing so, one aligns their actions with the divine will and wisdom, ensuring that they choose the path that is most pleasing to Allah. This not only safeguards one from potential regrets but also ensures that their actions are in accordance with the higher purpose and ultimate good.

Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Shura, verse 30, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And whatever strikes you of disaster - it is for what your hands have earned; but He pardons much.

This verse reminds us that the consequences of our actions are a result of our own choices and decisions. When we seek Allah's guidance through istikhara, we are essentially surrendering our will to His divine wisdom. By doing so, we are more likely to make choices that align with His pleasure and avoid actions that may lead to regret and disappointment.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to seek Allah's guidance in all aspects of their lives. It encourages us to pause, reflect, and supplicate to Allah before making important decisions. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of regret and disappointment that may arise from hasty or ill-informed choices. Instead, we can strive to align our actions with the divine will, leading to a life of contentment, fulfillment, and ultimate success in this world and the hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking what is best in our actions and decisions. By seeking Allah's guidance through istikhara, we can avoid regrets and ensure that our choices are in accordance with His divine wisdom. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and insight to seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives, and may He protect us from the consequences of regrettable actions.