Hadith #1728

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides us with profound insights into the nature of sexual intercourse. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first word to examine is (shame) "حَيَاءٌ", which refers to a sense of modesty and decency. In the context of sexual intercourse, it signifies the lifting of inhibitions and the expression of natural desires within the boundaries set by Allah. This concept of modesty is emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-A'raf (7:26), where Allah says,

O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best.

The next word is (loins) "عَوْرَاتٌ", which refers to the private parts of both men and women. It symbolizes the physical union that takes place during intercourse. In Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:5-6), Allah says,

And they who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then describes sexual intercourse as (the closest thing to insanity) "أَشْبَهُ شَيْءٍ بِٱلْجُنُونِ". This metaphorical expression highlights the intensity and overwhelming nature of sexual desire. It serves as a reminder that one should exercise self-control and approach this act with mindfulness and responsibility. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:187), Allah says,

It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them.

The Imam further states that persistence in sexual activity can lead to senility, indicating that excessive indulgence can have detrimental effects on one's physical and mental well-being. This aligns with the Quranic teachings of moderation and balance in all aspects of life. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:31), Allah warns against excess and says,

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

Revival from sexual activity brings regret, as it may lead to consequences that one may not have anticipated or desired. This highlights the importance of making informed and responsible choices in matters of intimacy. In Surah An-Nur (24:2), Allah advises,

The [unmarried] woman or [unmarried] man found guilty of sexual intercourse - lash each one of them with a hundred lashes, and do not be taken by pity for them in the religion of Allah, if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day.

The Imam concludes by stating that the lawful fruit of sexual intercourse is a child, who, if he or she lives, becomes a trial for the parents. This emphasizes the responsibilities and challenges that come with parenthood. In Surah Al-An'am (6:165), Allah reminds us,

And it is He who has made you successors upon the earth and has raised some of you above others in degrees [of rank] that He may try you through what He has given you.

If the child dies, it causes sadness, highlighting the natural grief that accompanies the loss of a loved one. This teaches us the importance of cherishing and appreciating the blessings bestowed upon us. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155), Allah says,

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides us with a comprehensive understanding of the nature and consequences of sexual intercourse. It emphasizes the importance of approaching this act with modesty, self-control, and responsibility. By adhering to the teachings of the Quran, Muslims can navigate this aspect of their lives in a manner that is pleasing to Allah and beneficial for their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness.