Hadith #2022

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) emphasizes the significance of soldiers who fight for the cause of Islam. The word (junud) "جُنُودُ" refers to soldiers or warriors, while (izz) "عِزُّ" means glory or honor, and (ad-deen) "الدِّينِ" signifies religion. Similarly, (husun) "حُصُونُ" means bastions or fortresses, and (al-wulaat) "الْوُلاةِ" refers to leaders or rulers.

To understand the connotation of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 39:

Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them victory.

This verse highlights the importance of defending oneself against oppression and injustice. It is the duty of the soldiers to protect the religion and its followers from any form of aggression or persecution.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 60, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy and others besides them whom you do not know [but] whom Allah knows.

This verse emphasizes the need for military strength and preparedness in order to deter and defend against those who pose a threat to the religion and its followers.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the pivotal role of soldiers in upholding the honor and glory of the religion. They are the ones who safeguard the faith and protect the leaders who govern according to the principles of Islam. The soldiers, through their dedication and sacrifice, ensure the preservation of the religion and its values.

The soldiers, as the glory of religion, act as a shining example for all Muslims. Their courage, discipline, and commitment inspire others to stand up for justice and defend the truth. They become a source of motivation and encouragement for the entire Muslim community.

Moreover, the soldiers are described as the bastions of the leaders. Just as fortresses protect and secure their inhabitants, the soldiers safeguard the leaders who govern with justice and righteousness. They shield the leaders from external threats and internal turmoil, allowing them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

The consequences of neglecting the role of soldiers can be seen throughout history. When the Muslim community fails to prioritize the defense of the religion, it becomes vulnerable to external aggression and internal divisions. The absence of a strong and capable military can lead to the erosion of the faith and the loss of its principles.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should recognize the importance of supporting and honoring their soldiers. They should strive to provide them with the necessary resources, training, and moral support. Additionally, Muslims should also strive to embody the qualities of a soldier in their own lives, standing up for justice and defending the rights of the oppressed.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the crucial role of soldiers in protecting and upholding the glory of the religion. Through their dedication and sacrifice, they ensure the preservation of the faith and the safety of its followers. Muslims should recognize the significance of supporting and honoring their soldiers, as they are the bastions of the leaders and the defenders of the religion. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless and protect all those who strive for the sake of Islam.