Hadith #4540

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two important concepts: the lapse of a pious person and the sickness of ignobility. Let us delve into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (zallatu) "زَلَّةُ" refers to a lapse or mistake, while (al-mutawaqqi) "المُتَوَقّي" denotes someone who is evidently pious or cautious. Thus, the Hadith emphasizes that the lapse of a person who is known for their piety is the worst kind of lapse. This highlights the severity of such a mistake, as it contradicts the expectations and reputation of a righteous individual.

To further understand the gravity of this concept, we can turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6):

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying information before acting upon it, as acting hastily based on false or incomplete knowledge can lead to harmful consequences. Therefore, a lapse in judgment or action by a pious person can have severe repercussions, both for themselves and for others.

The second part of the Hadith focuses on the (illatul luum) "عِلَّةُ اللَُّؤْمِ", which translates to the sickness of ignobility. This refers to a repulsive and disgraceful condition that is associated with moral corruption and lowly behavior. The Hadith states that this sickness is the most repulsive of all sicknesses, highlighting its severity and the need to avoid it at all costs.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the sickness of ignobility in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11):

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them.

This verse reminds us to refrain from mocking or belittling others, as it is a manifestation of ignobility. Such behavior not only tarnishes our own character but also creates divisions and animosity within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) wise utterance serves as a reminder to all Muslims of the importance of maintaining our piety and avoiding moral corruption. It teaches us that even the most pious individuals are susceptible to lapses and that we must constantly strive for self-improvement and self-reflection. It also highlights the significance of avoiding ignoble behavior and treating others with respect and dignity.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of sincerity in our actions and the need to constantly evaluate our behavior. We should strive to be cautious and mindful of our actions, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Islam. Additionally, we must guard ourselves against the sickness of ignobility, treating others with kindness, empathy, and respect.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in our pursuit of piety and protect us from lapses and moral corruption. May He grant us the wisdom to recognize our shortcomings and the strength to rectify them. Ameen.