Hadith #4086

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 basis of reformation of the heart is occupying it with the remembrance of Allah.

This thought-provoking saying emphasizes the importance of constantly remembering Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in order to purify and reform our hearts. Let us delve deeper into the key words of this hadith to gain a better understanding.

The word (asl) "أصْلُ" in Arabic refers to the foundation or basis of something. It is the fundamental principle upon which everything else is built. In this context, it signifies that the reformation of the heart is rooted in a specific action. The word (salah) "صَلاحِ" means reformation or rectification. It implies the process of purifying and improving one's heart, character, and actions.

The word (qalb) "قَلْبِ" translates to heart. In Islamic teachings, the heart is not merely the physical organ, but it encompasses the spiritual center of a person. It is the seat of emotions, intentions, and beliefs. The heart is the place where faith resides and where the connection with Allah is established.

The word (ishtighaluhu) "اِشْتِغالُهُ" means occupying or engaging oneself with something. In this hadith, it refers to the constant remembrance of Allah. The remembrance of Allah is not limited to formal acts of worship, such as prayer or recitation of the Quran. It encompasses a state of mindfulness and awareness of Allah's presence in every aspect of our lives.

The hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is beautifully supported by several Quranic verses that emphasize the significance of remembering Allah and its impact on the reformation of the heart.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ra'd (13:28),

Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah, hearts are assured.

This verse highlights that the remembrance of Allah brings tranquility and assurance to the hearts of believers. When we constantly remember Allah, our hearts find solace and peace, and we are able to navigate through the challenges of life with a sense of calm and contentment.

In Surah Al-Anfal (8:45), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, when you encounter a company [from the enemy forces], stand firm and remember Allah much that you may be successful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering Allah during times of difficulty and struggle. By occupying our hearts with the remembrance of Allah, we find strength, courage, and success in facing adversities. The remembrance of Allah becomes a source of motivation and inspiration, enabling us to overcome challenges with resilience and determination.

Reflecting on the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that the reformation of the heart is a continuous process that requires constant engagement with the remembrance of Allah. When we make the remembrance of Allah a central part of our lives, our hearts become purified, our character is refined, and our actions are guided by righteousness.

By remembering Allah in our daily lives, we develop a deep sense of gratitude, humility, and awareness of His presence. This remembrance strengthens our connection with Allah and deepens our faith. It serves as a constant reminder of our purpose in this world and helps us align our actions with His guidance.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the foundation of reformation of the heart lies in occupying it with the remembrance of Allah. By constantly remembering Allah, our hearts find tranquility, our character is refined, and our actions are guided by righteousness. Let us strive to make the remembrance of Allah a central part of our lives, so that our hearts may be purified and our souls may find eternal peace. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to remember Him constantly and reform our hearts.