Hadith #6368

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 righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

دَوامُ العِبادَةِ بُرْهانُ الظَّفَرِ بِالسَّعادَةِ۔

This can be translated as,

Continued worship is proof of success in attainment of prosperity.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (dawam) "دَوامُ" in this Hadith refers to the act of continuous worship. It signifies the consistency and steadfastness in one's devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is not merely a sporadic or occasional act of worship, but a continuous and unwavering commitment to seeking closeness to Allah.

The word (ibadah) "عِبادَةِ" encompasses all acts of worship, including prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage, and other righteous deeds. It represents the submission and obedience of a believer to the commandments of Allah. It is through sincere and consistent worship that one can attain true prosperity and success in both this world and the Hereafter.

The word (burhan) "بُرْهانُ" in the Hadith refers to proof or evidence. It signifies that continued worship serves as a clear indication or testimony of one's success in attaining prosperity. It is through the regular practice of worship that one demonstrates their faith, sincerity, and commitment to Allah. This consistent devotion becomes a proof of their steadfastness and dedication to the path of righteousness.

The word (thafar) "الظَّفَرِ" refers to success or triumph. In the context of this Hadith, it represents the achievement of prosperity and felicity in both worldly matters and spiritual affairs. It is important to note that true success lies not only in material wealth or worldly achievements, but also in the attainment of inner peace, contentment, and closeness to Allah.

The word (sa'adah) "السَّعادَةِ" translates to happiness or bliss. It signifies the state of being truly content and fulfilled. This happiness is not temporary or fleeting, but rather a deep-rooted and lasting joy that comes from a strong connection with Allah and the fulfillment of His commands.

To further understand the significance of continued worship as proof of success in attaining prosperity, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:277),

Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds and established prayer and given zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.

This verse emphasizes the importance of faith, righteous deeds, prayer, and charity in attaining success and security in the sight of Allah. It highlights the correlation between consistent worship and the ultimate reward from Allah. Those who continuously engage in acts of worship, fulfilling their obligations and going beyond, will be granted prosperity and protection from fear and grief.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:45), where Allah says,

Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.

This verse highlights the significance of establishing prayer and reciting the Quran. It emphasizes the positive impact of consistent worship on one's character and behavior. Prayer serves as a means of purifying the soul, preventing one from engaging in immoral and wrongful acts. The remembrance of Allah through continuous worship is a powerful tool in attaining prosperity and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that continued worship is a proof of success in attaining prosperity. Through consistent devotion to Allah, we demonstrate our faith, sincerity, and commitment to the path of righteousness. This unwavering commitment becomes a testimony of our steadfastness and dedication to seeking closeness to Allah. By following the commandments of Allah and engaging in acts of worship, we can achieve true prosperity and happiness in both this world and the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to maintain continuous worship and attain success in all aspects of our lives.