Hadith #3303

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The worst of morals is adorning oneself with vices.

Let us delve into the connotation of this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (aswa) "أسْوَءُ" in this Hadith refers to the worst or most evil. It is derived from the root word (saw'un) "سَوَءٌ", which signifies something that is morally corrupt or wicked. This word emphasizes the severity and gravity of the action being described.

The term (al-khala'iq) "الخَلائِقِ" refers to morals or qualities. It encompasses the characteristics and attributes that define a person's behavior and actions. It is important to note that these qualities can be either positive or negative, depending on the choices one makes.

The phrase (at-tahallī bi-r-razā'il) "التَّحَلّي بِالرَّذائِلِ" translates to

adorning oneself with vices.

Here, the word (at-tahallī) "التَّحَلّي" means to adorn or beautify oneself. However, in this context, it refers to the act of embracing and displaying vices or immoral actions. The term (ar-razā'il) "الرَّذائِلِ" signifies vices or evil deeds that tarnish one's character and lead them astray.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against adorning ourselves with vices in several verses.

In Surah Al-A'raf (7:26), 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. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember.

This verse highlights the importance of adorning oneself with righteousness and virtue rather than indulging in vices. It emphasizes that true beauty lies in one's character and actions, not in external adornments.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah states,

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 reminds us to strive for the Hereafter while also fulfilling our responsibilities in this world. It encourages us to do good and avoid corruption. Adorning ourselves with vices goes against the teachings of Islam and leads to corruption in society.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be cautious of their actions and to strive for moral excellence. It highlights the importance of purifying our hearts and souls from vices such as lying, cheating, arrogance, and greed.

When we adorn ourselves with vices, we not only harm ourselves but also contribute to the deterioration of society. Our actions have consequences that extend beyond our individual lives. By embracing vices, we become a source of corruption and discord, leading others astray from the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking saying urges us to reflect on our choices and strive for moral rectitude. It reminds us that true beauty lies in the purity of our character and the righteousness of our actions. By adorning ourselves with virtues and shunning vices, we become beacons of light, inspiring others to follow the path of goodness.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to adorn ourselves with virtues and protect us from the allure of vices. May we strive to emulate the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Ahl al-Bayt, and may our actions be a reflection of our faith.