Hadith #3979

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) states,

The greatest felicity is [in] the uprightness of religion.

This beautiful Hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining steadfastness and righteousness in one's faith. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (sa'adah) "سَعَادَة" in Arabic refers to felicity, happiness, or success. It encompasses the ultimate state of contentment and well-being. The word (istiqamah) "اِسْتِقَامَة" means uprightness, steadfastness, or adherence to the straight path. It implies remaining firm and unwavering in one's religious beliefs and practices.

The Quran provides numerous verses that highlight the importance of istiqamah and its connection to attaining true happiness and success. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am (6:162),

Say, 'Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.'

This verse emphasizes the need for steadfastness in worshiping Allah alone, regardless of the circumstances. It is through this unwavering devotion that one can achieve true sa'adah.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance in our pursuit of both worldly and spiritual matters. It reminds us that true sa'adah lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and doing good deeds while avoiding corruption.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that the ultimate source of happiness and success lies in the uprightness of our religion. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, regardless of the challenges we may face. By adhering to the teachings of Islam and striving to please Allah, we can attain true sa'adah in this life and the hereafter.

The consequences of practicing istiqamah are manifold. Firstly, it strengthens our relationship with Allah and deepens our faith. When we remain steadfast in our religious obligations, we develop a strong connection with our Creator, which brings us peace and tranquility. Secondly, istiqamah serves as a source of inspiration for others. When people witness our unwavering commitment to our religion, it motivates them to follow suit and seek their own sa'adah. Lastly, practicing istiqamah protects us from the pitfalls of deviation and misguidance. By staying on the straight path, we shield ourselves from the harmful influences that can lead us astray.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we should ask ourselves if we are truly striving for istiqamah in our lives. Are we consistently adhering to the teachings of Islam and seeking to improve ourselves? Are we maintaining steadfastness in our prayers, acts of worship, and dealings with others? It is crucial for us to constantly evaluate our actions and intentions, ensuring that we are on the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of istiqamah in attaining true sa'adah. By remaining steadfast in our religious beliefs and practices, we can experience the ultimate state of happiness and success. Let us strive to uphold the uprightness of our religion, seeking the pleasure of Allah and inspiring others to do the same. May Allah grant us the strength and guidance to practice istiqamah and attain true felicity.