Hadith #6048

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,

Mani ittakhada ta'atal-lahi sabiylan fazabil-latī hiya a'zam.

This Hadith emphasizes the significance of following the path of obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and highlights the great reward that awaits those who choose this path.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining its key words. "Ittakhada" means to adopt or take, while "ta'atal-lah" refers to the obedience of Allah. "Sabiylan" signifies a path or a way, and "faza" means to attain or achieve. Finally, "a'zam" denotes something greater or more significant.

To further understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of obedience and following His path. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 31, Allah says,

Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.'

This verse highlights the connection between love for Allah and following the path of the Prophet (ﷺ), which ultimately leads to Allah's love and forgiveness.

Additionally, in Surah An-Nisa, verse 80, Allah states,

Whoever obeys the Messenger has obeyed Allah; but those who turn away - We have not sent you over them as a guardian.

This verse emphasizes that obedience to the Prophet (ﷺ) is equivalent to obedience to Allah Himself. Therefore, following the path of the Prophet (ﷺ) is the means to attain the pleasure and reward of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. By choosing the path of obedience to Allah, one not only fulfills their duty as a Muslim but also attains something greater than what they would achieve by following other paths. This means that the rewards and blessings bestowed upon those who sincerely and wholeheartedly obey Allah's commands are far superior to any worldly gains or temporary pleasures.

For example, imagine a person who chooses to engage in acts of charity, kindness, and righteousness, seeking only the pleasure of Allah. Their actions may not bring them immediate material wealth or recognition in this world, but in the hereafter, they will be rewarded with eternal bliss and closeness to Allah. On the other hand, someone who pursues worldly desires and neglects the path of obedience to Allah may achieve temporary success and pleasure, but they will miss out on the everlasting rewards of the hereafter.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize obedience to Allah above all else. It encourages us to constantly evaluate our actions and intentions, ensuring that we are on the path of righteousness. By doing so, we can strive for the ultimate reward, which is the pleasure and closeness of Allah.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of choosing the path of obedience to Allah. It reminds us that by following this path, we attain something far greater than any worldly gains or temporary pleasures. The Quranic verses mentioned support this message, highlighting the significance of obedience to Allah and the Prophet (ﷺ). As Muslims, it is our duty to reflect on this Hadith and strive to align our actions and intentions with the path of obedience to Allah, seeking His pleasure and eternal rewards. May Allah guide us all on the straight path and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.