Hadith #8641

Praise be to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the Most High, the All-Wise, and the Creator of the heavens and the earth. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he beautifully describes the Qur'an, highlighting its significance and virtues. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its deep meanings and drawing upon the guidance of the Qur'an.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) begins by stating that the Qur'an is

the decisive word and not a jest.

This emphasizes the seriousness and authority of the Qur'an. It is not a mere collection of stories or entertainment, but a divine revelation that carries weight and significance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) Himself describes the Qur'an as (Qur'an 41:3)

a Book whose verses have been detailed, an Arabic Qur'an for a people who know

The Qur'an is a comprehensive and detailed guide for humanity, providing clear guidance and solutions to all aspects of life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further describes the Qur'an as

the articulator of the practice of justice and the enjoiner of virtue.

This highlights the Qur'an's role in establishing justice and promoting righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Qur'an, (Qur'an 16:90)

Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct

The Qur'an serves as a moral compass, guiding Muslims towards virtuous actions and encouraging them to uphold justice in all aspects of their lives.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then describes the Qur'an as

the strong rope of Allah and the wise reminder.

This imagery of a strong rope signifies the Qur'an's ability to unite and strengthen the believers. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Qur'an, (Qur'an 3:103)

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided

The Qur'an acts as a source of guidance and unity, connecting Muslims to their Creator and to one another.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes the Qur'an as

the trusted revelation of Allah and His strong rope.

This highlights the authenticity and reliability of the Qur'an. It is a revelation from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the All-Knowing and All-Wise. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) Himself testifies to the preservation of the Qur'an, stating, (Qur'an 15:9)

Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur'an and indeed, We will be its guardian

Muslims can trust in the Qur'an as a source of divine guidance and wisdom.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) goes on to describe the Qur'an as

the spring of the hearts and the fountains of knowledge.

This metaphorical language highlights the transformative power of the Qur'an. Just as a spring provides life-giving water, the Qur'an nourishes the hearts and souls of believers, bringing them closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Qur'an is also a source of knowledge, encompassing a wide range of subjects, including theology, ethics, and guidance for personal and societal matters.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further describes the Qur'an as "the straight path." This echoes the Qur'anic concept of Sirat al-Mustaqeem, the straight path that leads to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Qur'an, (Qur'an 1:6)

Guide us to the straight path

The Qur'an serves as a guide, showing Muslims the right path to follow and helping them navigate the challenges of life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by stating that the Qur'an is

guidance for the one who follows it, an adornment for the one who beautifies himself with it, a protector for the one who seeks protection by it, and a firm rope for the one who holds on to it.

This emphasizes the practical and transformative nature of the Qur'an. By following the guidance of the Qur'an, Muslims can attain spiritual enlightenment, adorn their character with noble qualities, seek protection from sin and temptation, and find strength and stability in their faith.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully captures the essence and significance of the Qur'an. It is a divine revelation that carries authority, establishes justice, and promotes virtue. The Qur'an serves as a strong rope that unites and strengthens the believers, offering guidance, wisdom, and protection. It is a source of transformation and enlightenment, providing nourishment to the hearts and souls of Muslims. May we all strive to deepen our understanding and connection with the Qur'an, and may it continue to guide and inspire us on the straight path.