Hadith #2676

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,

اِلْزَمُوا الحَقَّ تَلْزَمْكُمُ النَّجاةُ۔

This can be translated as,

Cling to the truth and salvation will cling to you.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of adhering to the truth in order to attain salvation.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (al-haqq) "الحَقَّ" refers to the truth, which encompasses both the absolute truth of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the truthfulness in our actions and beliefs. It is the opposite of falsehood and deception. The word (ilzamoo) "اِلْزَمُوا" means to cling or hold fast to something, indicating the need for a firm and unwavering commitment to the truth. And finally, the word (an-najah) "النَّجاةُ" translates to salvation or deliverance, which refers to attaining success and safety in this world and the hereafter.

To understand the significance of clinging to the truth, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:101),

And how could you disbelieve while to you are being recited the verses of Allah and among you is His Messenger? And whoever holds firmly to Allah has [indeed] been guided to a straight path.

This verse emphasizes the importance of holding firmly to Allah and His guidance, which is the ultimate truth. By doing so, one is guided to the straight path, leading to salvation.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Anfal (8:20), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, obey Allah and His Messenger and do not turn from him while you hear [his order].

This verse highlights the importance of adhering to the truth as conveyed by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and not deviating from it. By obeying Allah and His Messenger, one ensures their adherence to the truth, which in turn leads to salvation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to always seek the truth in their actions, beliefs, and interactions with others. By clinging to the truth, we align ourselves with the divine guidance and teachings of Islam, which ultimately leads to salvation. This adherence to truth brings numerous benefits and blessings in this world and the hereafter.

When we cling to the truth, we become steadfast in our faith and actions. We are less likely to be swayed by falsehoods, temptations, or societal pressures. Our decisions and choices are guided by the principles of justice, honesty, and righteousness. This not only brings inner peace and contentment but also earns the respect and trust of others.

Moreover, clinging to the truth strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It deepens our understanding of His attributes and His divine plan for us. By seeking the truth, we strive to align our lives with His will, which leads to His pleasure and blessings. As Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:69),

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.

On the other hand, neglecting the truth can have severe consequences. It can lead to confusion, moral decay, and spiritual emptiness. By deviating from the truth, we risk falling into falsehoods, misguided beliefs, and sinful actions. This not only distances us from Allah's mercy but also puts our salvation at stake.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of clinging to the truth in order to attain salvation. By adhering to the truth, we align ourselves with the divine guidance of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ). This commitment brings numerous benefits and blessings in this world and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to always seek and hold fast to the truth.