Hadith #10418

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-restraint and self-discipline. The key phrase in this Hadith is (deterring the soul from vain desire)

رَدْعُ النَّفْسِ عَنِ الهَوَى

which is described as the beneficial Jihad. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (deterring) "رَدْعُ" comes from the root word "رَدَعَ" which means to prevent, restrain, or hold back. It implies the act of controlling and disciplining oneself. The word (the soul) "النَّفْسِ" refers to the inner self, including its desires, inclinations, and passions. And (vain desire) "الهَوَى" refers to the base desires and whims that lead one away from the path of righteousness.

To understand the significance of deterring the soul from vain desire, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 50:

But if they do not respond to you - then know that they only follow their [own] desires. And who is more astray than one who follows his desire without guidance from Allah? Indeed, Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.

This verse highlights the danger of following one's desires without seeking guidance from Allah. It emphasizes the importance of restraining the soul from vain desires, as those who succumb to their desires without guidance are led astray. Therefore, deterring the soul from vain desire is a form of Jihad, a struggle against one's own self, to stay on the right path and seek the pleasure of Allah.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of deterring the soul from vain desire is found in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 56:

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 true guidance comes from Allah alone. It is not within our power to guide others or even ourselves without His guidance. By deterring the soul from vain desire, we acknowledge our dependence on Allah's guidance and submit ourselves to His will. This act of self-restraint is a means to seek His guidance and attain true righteousness.

Deterring the soul from vain desire has profound implications in our lives as Muslims. It requires us to constantly evaluate our actions, intentions, and desires. It compels us to resist the temptations of this world and strive for higher moral and spiritual standards. By restraining our souls from vain desires, we cultivate self-discipline, strengthen our faith, and purify our hearts.

This form of Jihad, which is beneficial, has far-reaching consequences. It leads to personal growth, spiritual elevation, and a closer relationship with Allah. It enables us to overcome our weaknesses and develop virtues such as patience, gratitude, and humility. It empowers us to resist societal pressures and make choices that align with the teachings of Islam. Ultimately, deterring the soul from vain desire is a means to attain success in this life and the Hereafter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the profound wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His words encapsulate the essence of true Jihad, which begins within oneself. By deterring the soul from vain desire, we engage in a constant struggle to purify our hearts and align our actions with the teachings of Islam. May Allah grant us the strength and guidance to embark on this beneficial Jihad and attain His pleasure.