إيّاكَ والعَجَلَ فَإنَّهُ مَقْرُونٌ بِالعِثارِ۔
Keep away from haste, for surely it is associated with error.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Haste And The Hasty)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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) warns us against the dangers of haste, stating,
Keep away from haste, for surely it is associated with error.
The word (ajala) "عَجَلَ" in Arabic refers to acting hastily or rushing into something without proper consideration. The word (maqroon) "مَقْرُونٌ" means to be closely linked or associated with, and (al-'ithaar) "العِثارِ" refers to error or mistakes.
This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of avoiding haste in our actions and decisions. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful and deliberate in their choices, as acting hastily can often lead to mistakes, regrets, and unfavorable outcomes.
The Quran also emphasizes the significance of patience, wisdom, and careful consideration in various verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:159),
So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].
This verse highlights the importance of consultation and seeking advice before making decisions. It teaches us that rushing into decisions without proper consultation can lead to negative consequences. By seeking the counsel of others and relying on Allah's guidance, we can avoid the pitfalls of haste and make more informed choices.
Another verse that supports the wisdom of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:36), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,
And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.
This verse reminds us to refrain from acting impulsively or pursuing matters without proper knowledge and understanding. It encourages Muslims to exercise caution and seek knowledge before making decisions, as we will be held accountable for our actions. Acting hastily without knowledge can lead to regrettable outcomes and mistakes.
Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to be patient, thoughtful, and deliberate in their actions. It encourages us to take the time to reflect, seek advice, and consider the consequences before making any decisions. By doing so, we can avoid the errors and regrets that often accompany haste.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us against the dangers of haste and urges us to be cautious and deliberate in our actions. This advice aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of patience, wisdom, and seeking knowledge before making decisions. By following this guidance, Muslims can avoid the errors and regrets that come with acting hastily. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and patience to make sound choices in our lives.
Join our community to daily receive one short Hadith of Imam Ali a.s on your device. |