Hadith #6869

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "ثَمَرَةُ العِفَّةِ الصِّيانَةُ۔" This can be translated as,

The fruit of chastity is preservation [of oneself from chastisement].

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (chastity) "عِفَّةِ" refers to the state of being pure and modest, abstaining from any form of indecency or immorality. It encompasses both physical and moral aspects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity in one's thoughts, actions, and interactions. (preservation) "صِّيانَةُ" refers to the act of safeguarding oneself from harm or punishment. It implies protection and preservation from the negative consequences that may arise from indulging in immoral behavior.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can 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 chastity and the prohibition of engaging in any form of illicit sexual activity. By adhering to the principles of chastity, one preserves their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, protecting themselves from the harmful consequences of indulging in immoral behavior.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nur (24:30), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises both men and women to lower their gaze and guard their modesty. This verse emphasizes the significance of maintaining modesty in one's interactions and the importance of controlling one's desires. By practicing chastity, individuals safeguard themselves from falling into the traps of temptation and immorality, ensuring their own preservation and protection from the negative consequences that may follow.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further highlights the consequences of practicing chastity. When one cultivates the virtue of chastity, they not only protect themselves from the physical and emotional harm that may result from indulging in immoral behavior, but they also preserve their honor, dignity, and self-respect. Chastity serves as a shield, guarding individuals from the negative consequences that may arise from violating the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His Messenger (ﷺ).

Moreover, the fruit of chastity extends beyond the individual. By practicing and promoting chastity, one contributes to the preservation of society as a whole. Chastity fosters a healthy and pure environment, where individuals can thrive and flourish. It protects the sanctity of families, strengthens the bonds of trust and respect, and upholds the values and principles that form the foundation of a righteous society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of practicing chastity and the preservation that comes with it. By adhering to the principles of modesty and purity, individuals protect themselves from the harmful consequences of indulging in immoral behavior. Chastity serves as a shield, safeguarding one's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and preserving their honor, dignity, and self-respect. Furthermore, the practice of chastity contributes to the preservation of society, fostering an environment of righteousness and upholding the values and principles that lead to a prosperous and harmonious community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to cultivate the virtue of chastity in our lives and protect us from the temptations of immorality.