Hadith #1228

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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) states,

Salvation comes with faith.

Let us delve into the essence of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (najat) "نَّجَاةُ" in Arabic refers to salvation, deliverance, or rescue from harm or danger. It signifies being saved from the perils of this world and the Hereafter. The word (ma'a) "مَعَ" means "with" or "alongside." And finally, the word (al-iman) "ٱلإِيمَانِ" translates to faith or belief.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of faith as the foundation of salvation. Allah says in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3),

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse highlights that faith is the key to salvation. Without it, humanity is in a state of loss. Belief in Allah, His messengers, and the principles of Islam is the foundation upon which all righteous deeds are built. It is through faith that we seek guidance, perform good deeds, and strive for righteousness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), Allah says,

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that faith provides us with the strength and resilience to face the challenges and trials of life. It is through our belief in Allah's wisdom and mercy that we find solace and hope in difficult times.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes that salvation is inseparable from faith. It implies that true deliverance from the hardships of this world and the Hereafter can only be achieved through a sincere and unwavering belief in Allah and His guidance.

Faith serves as a guiding light that illuminates our path, enabling us to make choices that align with Allah's commands. It motivates us to perform righteous deeds, seek knowledge, and strive for self-improvement. It is through faith that we develop a deep connection with our Creator, which leads to inner peace and contentment.

Moreover, faith has profound consequences in both this life and the Hereafter. In Surah Yunus (10:62-64), Allah says,

No doubt! Verily, the Awliya' of Allah [i.e., those who believe in the Oneness of Allah and fear Allah much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which He has forbidden), and love Allah much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)], no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve. Those who believed and used to fear Allah much. For them are glad tidings, in the life of the present world and in the Hereafter.

This verse highlights that those who have faith in Allah and fear Him will be granted protection from fear and grief. They will receive glad tidings and blessings in this life and the Hereafter. Their faith becomes a source of strength, comfort, and ultimate salvation.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, we realize that faith is not merely a passive belief but an active force that shapes our actions, choices, and character. It is through faith that we find salvation from the trials and tribulations of this world, as well as the eternal consequences of the Hereafter.

As Muslims, we must strive to strengthen our faith through seeking knowledge, performing good deeds, and maintaining a close relationship with Allah. By doing so, we can attain true salvation and experience the tranquility that comes with unwavering belief in the Almighty.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to deepen our faith and attain salvation in this life and the Hereafter. Ameen.