Hadith #4440

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

مَنْ رَضِيَ بِالمَقْدُورِ قَوِيَ يَقينُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever is satisfied with what has been decreed, his certitude is strengthened.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in the light of the Quran.

The word (maqdūr) "مَقْدُورِ" in this Hadith refers to the divine decree or predestination. It signifies that everything that happens in this world is part of Allah's plan and is predetermined by His infinite wisdom. It encompasses both the good and the seemingly unfavorable events that occur in our lives. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that one's certitude or faith is strengthened when they are content and accepting of the divine decree.

The Quran provides numerous verses that highlight the importance of accepting and being satisfied with Allah's decree. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:155-156)

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, who, when disaster strikes them, say, 'Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.'

This verse reminds us that trials and tribulations are a part of life, and it is through patience and acceptance that our faith is fortified. When we face difficulties and remain steadfast in our belief that everything is in accordance with Allah's plan, our certitude in His wisdom and mercy is strengthened.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the importance of having a strong and unwavering faith. When we accept the divine decree, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's infinite knowledge and wisdom. This trust is rooted in the belief that Allah knows what is best for us, even if we may not fully comprehend it at the time.

In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 57:22-23)

No disaster strikes upon the earth or among yourselves except that it is in a register before We bring it into being - indeed that, for Allah, is easy - in order that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse reminds us that everything that happens is already recorded in Allah's knowledge. It teaches us to avoid despairing over what we have lost or becoming arrogant over what we have been given. Instead, we should remain content and trust in Allah's plan, knowing that He has a greater purpose for everything that occurs.

When we internalize the concept of accepting the divine decree, we experience a profound transformation in our outlook on life. We become more resilient in the face of challenges, knowing that they are part of Allah's plan for our growth and development. We also become more grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us, recognizing that they are gifts from Allah's infinite mercy.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate a mindset of contentment and acceptance. By embracing the divine decree, we strengthen our certitude and deepen our connection with Allah. We learn to trust in His wisdom, knowing that He has ordained everything for our ultimate benefit.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being satisfied with the divine decree. Through acceptance, our certitude is fortified, and our faith in Allah's wisdom is strengthened. We are reminded to trust in Allah's plan, even in the face of adversity, and to remain grateful for His blessings. May Allah grant us the ability to embrace His decree with contentment and strengthen our certitude in Him.