Hadith #2970

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the important role that the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet Muhammad) play as the trustees of Allah over His servants and the establishers of truth in His lands. Let us delve into the exegesis of this enlightening saying, exploring the meanings and implications it holds.

The word (trustees) "أُمَنَاءُ" refers to individuals who are entrusted with a responsibility or duty. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the divine trust that Allah has placed upon him and the other members of the Ahl al-Bayt. They are entrusted with the responsibility of guiding and leading the Ummah (Muslim community) towards righteousness and truth.

The phrase (establishers of truth) "مُقِيمُوا الْحَقِّ" emphasizes the role of the Ahl al-Bayt in upholding and promoting the truth in the lands of Allah. They are the guardians of the divine message and are responsible for preserving and disseminating it to the people. Through their knowledge, wisdom, and actions, they establish the truth and ensure that it prevails over falsehood.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:55), Allah says,

Your ally is none but Allah and [therefore] His Messenger and those who have believed - those who establish prayer and give zakah, and they bow [in worship].

This verse highlights the importance of following the guidance of Allah, His Messenger, and the believers who establish prayer and give zakah. The Ahl al-Bayt, being the chosen ones by Allah, are the epitome of those who establish prayer and fulfill their duties towards Allah and the community. They are the true allies of the believers, guiding them towards righteousness and salvation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:56), Allah says,

Indeed, [O Muhammad], you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse reminds us that guidance ultimately comes from Allah alone. He chooses whom He wills to be the guides and leaders of the Ummah. The Ahl al-Bayt, being the chosen ones by Allah, possess a unique knowledge and understanding of the truth. They are the ones who provide guidance and lead the Ummah towards the path of righteousness.

The consequences of following the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt are immense. As mentioned in the Hadith, (through us the friend [of Allah] is saved) "بِنَا يَنْجُو الْمُوالِي". By adhering to the teachings and guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt, Muslims can attain salvation and proximity to Allah. Their words and actions serve as a beacon of light, guiding believers towards the path of righteousness and success in this world and the hereafter.

On the other hand, the Hadith also states, (by us the enemy is destroyed) "وَبِنَا يَهْلِكُ الْمُعَادِي". Those who oppose and reject the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt are destined for destruction. Their enmity towards the Ahl al-Bayt leads them astray and brings about their downfall. It is a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of those who oppose the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt and to distance themselves from such individuals and ideologies.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that the Ahl al-Bayt play in guiding the Ummah towards righteousness and truth. Through their knowledge, actions, and guidance, they establish the truth and ensure the salvation of the believers. It is incumbent upon Muslims to follow their teachings and seek their guidance in order to attain success in this world and the hereafter. May Allah guide us all to the path of truth and righteousness.