Hadith #169

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The result of neglect is shame, while the result of far-sightedness is safety.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect or school of thought.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to better understand its meaning. The word (تَفْرِيطِ) "tafrit" refers to neglect or carelessness, while (نَدَامَةُ) "nadamah" means shame or regret. On the other hand, (حَزْمِ) "hazm" signifies far-sightedness or prudence, and (سَلاَمَةُ) "salamah" denotes safety or security.

To further illuminate the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:18),

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our actions and their consequences. Neglecting our duties and responsibilities can lead to regret and shame in this life and the hereafter.

Moreover, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands the believers to take provisions for their journey to Hajj, saying,

Take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the significance of far-sightedness and preparedness in our spiritual journey. By being vigilant and cautious in our actions, we can ensure our safety and protection from harm.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be proactive and responsible in all aspects of their lives. Neglecting our duties and obligations can lead to dire consequences, both in this world and the hereafter. For instance, neglecting our prayers, charity, or the rights of others can result in a sense of shame and regret when we reflect upon our actions.

On the other hand, far-sightedness and prudence enable us to anticipate and prevent potential harm. By being proactive in our worship, relationships, and decision-making, we can ensure our safety and well-being. For example, being mindful of the consequences of our choices and actions can help us avoid harmful habits, destructive relationships, and unethical behavior.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, making his words a source of guidance for all Muslims. His emphasis on far-sightedness and vigilance encourages us to be conscious of our actions, to plan for the future, and to prioritize our spiritual growth and well-being.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of avoiding neglect and embracing far-sightedness. By being responsible and proactive in our actions, we can safeguard ourselves from shame and regret, and instead attain safety and security. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to implement these teachings in our lives and protect us from the consequences of neglect.