Hadith #5458

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 noble companions.

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

بِمِلْكِ الشَّهْوَةِ اَلتَّنَزُّهُ عَنْ كُلِّ عاب۔

This can be translated as,

By controlling [one’s] lust, one becomes free of every flaw.

Let us delve into the meaning of the important words in this Hadith. The word (milki) "مِلْكِ" refers to the control or mastery over something. In this context, it signifies the ability to govern and restrain one's desires and passions. (ash-shahwah) "الشَّهْوَةِ" refers to lust or desire, specifically pertaining to the sensual or physical desires of the human being. (at-tanzuhu) "التَّنَزُّهُ" means to abstain or refrain from something. And finally, (a'ab) "عَاب" refers to flaws or imperfections.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:201),

Indeed, those who fear Allah - when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember [Him] and at once they have insight.

This verse emphasizes the importance of controlling our desires and seeking refuge in Allah when faced with temptations. By doing so, we gain clarity and wisdom to distinguish between right and wrong.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the importance of controlling our tongues and refraining from engaging in harmful speech. By doing so, we protect ourselves from falling into the flaws of backbiting, slander, and disrespect.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that by mastering our desires and passions, we can attain a state of purity and perfection. When we are able to control our lusts, we become free from the flaws and imperfections that can tarnish our character and hinder our spiritual growth.

For example, when we control our desires for material possessions, we are able to prioritize our needs and make wise decisions regarding our wealth. This prevents us from falling into the trap of greed, selfishness, and extravagance. Similarly, when we control our desires for power and authority, we are able to lead with justice, humility, and compassion, rather than succumbing to corruption and tyranny.

The consequences of not controlling our lusts are evident in various aspects of life. Uncontrolled desires can lead to addiction, harmful relationships, and unethical behavior. They can also cloud our judgment and hinder our ability to make sound decisions. By restraining our desires, we protect ourselves from these negative consequences and pave the way for a more righteous and fulfilling life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of controlling our lusts and desires in order to attain a state of purity and perfection. By mastering our passions, we free ourselves from the flaws and imperfections that can hinder our spiritual growth and lead us astray. Through self-discipline and seeking refuge in Allah, we can overcome our desires and strive towards a more righteous and fulfilling life. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to control our lusts and purify our hearts.