Hadith #1566

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

كَمْ مِنْ صَبابَة اكْتُسِبَتْ مِنْ لَحْظَة۔

This can be translated into English as,

How many a passion has been aroused from a [single] glance!

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the power and impact of a single glance, emphasizing the potential consequences that can arise from it.

To understand the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (sababah) "صَبابَة" refers to a passion or desire that is ignited within a person. It signifies a strong emotional reaction or attraction towards something or someone. The word (iktusibat) "اكْتُسِبَتْ" means to be acquired or obtained, indicating that this passion is not inherent but rather acquired through external factors. Lastly, the word (lahzah) "لَحْظَة" refers to a single moment or glance.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:32),

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

This verse highlights the importance of guarding our glances and being mindful of where we direct our gaze. A single glance, if not controlled, can lead to sinful desires and immoral actions.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nur (24:30), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises both men and women to lower their gazes and guard their modesty. This verse emphasizes the significance of controlling our glances and not allowing them to wander freely, as it can lead to the arousal of passions and desires that are contrary to the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the power of a single glance. It highlights the potential consequences that can arise from a momentary lapse in control over our gaze. A single glance, if not checked, can lead to a chain of events that may result in sinful actions, broken relationships, or even the destruction of one's faith.

For example, a person may innocently glance at someone of the opposite gender, but if they do not control their thoughts and desires, this initial glance can lead to further interactions, illicit relationships, and the erosion of moral values. Similarly, a glance of envy or covetousness towards someone's possessions or achievements can ignite a burning desire within a person, leading them to engage in unethical practices or become consumed by jealousy.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautiful saying serves as a wake-up call for Muslims to be vigilant and mindful of their actions, particularly in relation to their gaze. It reminds us of the importance of self-discipline and self-control, as these qualities are essential in preventing the arousal of passions and desires that can lead us astray.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the impact of a single glance. It emphasizes the need for self-discipline and self-control in order to prevent the arousal of passions and desires that are contrary to the teachings of Islam. By guarding our gazes and being mindful of where we direct our glances, we can protect ourselves from the potential consequences that can arise from a momentary lapse in control. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to control our gazes and protect ourselves from the temptations of this world.