Hadith #9419

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic phrase (Kafa bil-ilhah mahramah) "كَفَى بِالإلْحَاحِ مَحْرَمَةً" is a profound statement made by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). To understand the meaning of this statement, let us delve into the key words and their significance.

The word (ilhah) "إلْحَاحِ" refers to importunity or persistent pleading, while (mahramah) "مَحْرَمَةً" means deprivation or being denied. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that excessive and persistent pleading can lead to deprivation or being denied.

To further comprehend the depth of this statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:186),

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.

This verse highlights the closeness of Allah to His servants and His willingness to respond to their supplications.

However, it is important to note that importunity, or excessive pleading, can be counterproductive. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) also advises in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:187),

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse cautions against seeking unlawful means to fulfill one's desires, as it leads to deprivation and loss.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that while supplication and pleading to Allah is encouraged, it should be done with moderation and sincerity. Excessive importunity can be seen as a lack of trust in Allah's wisdom and can lead to deprivation in various aspects of life.

For example, if a person constantly pleads for material wealth without putting in the necessary effort or seeking lawful means, they may find themselves deprived of true contentment and spiritual growth. Similarly, if one persistently begs for a specific outcome without considering the greater wisdom of Allah, they may be deprived of the opportunity to learn valuable lessons or experience personal growth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the importance of patience and acceptance of Allah's decree. 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.

This verse reminds Muslims that trials and hardships are a part of life, and through patience and reliance on Allah, they can overcome them.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Importunity is enough as a [reason for] deprivation

serves as a profound reminder for Muslims. While supplication and pleading to Allah are encouraged, excessive importunity can lead to deprivation and loss. It is important to strike a balance between asking for our needs and desires and accepting Allah's decree with patience and trust in His wisdom. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt and grant us the wisdom to understand the true essence of supplication.