Hadith #5670

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 hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Good health is the more salubrious of the two delights.

This hadith emphasizes the importance of good health and highlights its superiority over other worldly pleasures. To understand the connotation of this hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications.

The word (sihhah) "صِحَّةُ" refers to good health, well-being, and soundness. It encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. It is a state of balance and harmony in all aspects of one's being. This includes the absence of illness, strength, vitality, and a sound mind.

The word (ahna) "أهْنَأُ" is derived from the root word (hana) "هَنَأَ", which means to be more pleasant, delightful, or enjoyable. It signifies a state of contentment, satisfaction, and happiness.

The phrase (al-lazatayn) "اللَّذَّتَيْنِ" refers to the two delights or pleasures being compared in this hadith. It implies that there are various pleasures in this world, but the two being mentioned here are specifically highlighted for their significance.

To further understand the importance of good health, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneself and not engaging in actions that may harm one's well-being. It encourages Muslims to spend in the way of Allah while also reminding them to prioritize their own health and well-being.

Another verse that sheds light on the significance of good health is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.

This verse highlights the sanctity of life and the importance of preserving it. Good health enables individuals to fulfill their responsibilities, contribute positively to society, and protect the lives of others. It is through good health that one can actively engage in acts of righteousness and make a positive impact on the world.

Now, reflecting on the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that good health is not only a blessing but also a means to attain other pleasures and fulfill our duties as Muslims. It is the foundation upon which we can build a life of righteousness, productivity, and spiritual growth.

When we are in good health, we have the energy and strength to perform acts of worship, engage in acts of kindness, and fulfill our obligations towards Allah and His creation. It enables us to pray, fast, give charity, and undertake the pilgrimage to the best of our abilities.

Furthermore, good health allows us to enjoy the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. It enables us to appreciate the beauty of nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives. It allows us to pursue our passions, contribute to society, and make a positive impact on the world around us.

Conversely, when we neglect our health, we limit our ability to fulfill our responsibilities and enjoy the blessings of life. Poor health can hinder our worship, restrict our mobility, and diminish our overall well-being. It can lead to physical and mental ailments, which in turn affect our ability to serve Allah and fulfill our duties as Muslims.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of good health and its superiority over other worldly pleasures. It reminds us to prioritize our well-being and take care of ourselves in order to fulfill our obligations as Muslims and enjoy the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. Let us strive to maintain good health, seek knowledge about healthy lifestyles, and make conscious efforts to preserve and enhance our well-being. May Allah grant us all good health and enable us to use it in His obedience and for the betterment of humanity.