Hadith #4033

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises the Muslims to hold firmly to three essential principles: religion, piety, and certitude. The Arabic word "biluzum" used in the Hadith means to cling or hold tightly. It implies a strong attachment and commitment to these principles. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of "deen" or religion. The term "deen" encompasses the entire system of beliefs, practices, and values that guide a person's life. It includes the worship of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the fulfillment of religious obligations, and the adherence to moral and ethical principles. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the significance of religion and the need to hold steadfastly to it. 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 highlights the importance of adhering to the teachings of Islam and not deviating from the straight path.

Secondly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes "taqwa" or piety. Taqwa is the conscious awareness of Allah's presence and the fear of displeasing Him. It involves being mindful of one's actions, thoughts, and intentions, and striving to do what is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Quran describes the people of taqwa as those who are conscious of Allah in all aspects of their lives. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13):

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that piety and righteousness are the criteria for superiority in the sight of Allah.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes "yaqeen" or certitude. Yaqeen refers to unwavering faith and conviction in the truth of Islam. It is the deep-rooted belief that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the only true God and that His guidance is absolute. The Quran encourages believers to have firm faith and trust in Allah's promises. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:62):

That is because Allah is the Truth, and that which they call upon other than Him is falsehood, and because Allah is the Most High, the Grand.

This verse emphasizes the importance of having certitude in the oneness of Allah and the falsehood of any other object of worship.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that these three principles, when adhered to, are the best of virtues and lead to attaining lofty stations in the sight of Allah. By clinging to religion, piety, and certitude, Muslims are able to strengthen their relationship with Allah, purify their souls, and strive for excellence in all aspects of life. These virtues serve as a foundation for moral and spiritual growth, enabling individuals to navigate the challenges of this world and prepare for the eternal life hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to hold firmly to religion, piety, and certitude. By doing so, we can attain the best of virtues and strive for the highest stations in the sight of Allah. Let us reflect upon these teachings and strive to incorporate them into our lives, seeking Allah's guidance and mercy in all our endeavors. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and steadfastness to adhere to these principles and bless us with success in this world and the hereafter.