Hadith #5998

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of obeying someone who is deserving of our obedience. Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and significance.

The first important word in this Hadith is (ahaaq) "أحَقُّ", which translates to "the most deserving." This word highlights the superiority and rightful claim of the person being referred to. It implies that this individual possesses qualities or authority that make them worthy of our obedience.

The next word is (man) "مَنْ", meaning "one" or "someone." This indicates that the Hadith is not specifying a particular individual, but rather emphasizing a general principle that applies to anyone who meets the criteria mentioned.

The word (tuti'uhu) "تُطيعُهُ" means "you obey him." This verb signifies the act of submitting to the commands and instructions of the deserving individual. It implies a sense of humility and compliance.

The phrase (man la tajidu minhu buddan)

مَنْ لاتَجِدُ مِنْهُ بُدّاً

translates to

from whom you cannot find any escape.

This phrase emphasizes the inability to find any excuse or way out from obeying the deserving person. It suggests that their authority is absolute and cannot be circumvented.

The final phrase (wala tastati'u li-amrihi raddan) "وَلاتَسْتَطيعُ لأمْرِهِ رَدّاً" means

and the one whom you cannot turn down.

This phrase further emphasizes the impossibility of refusing or rejecting the commands of the deserving person. It highlights the obligation to comply with their instructions without hesitation.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of obedience to those in authority, as long as their commands do not contradict the teachings of Islam.

In Surah An-Nisa, Allah says, (Quran 4:59)

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you. And if you disagree over anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day. That is the best [way] and best in result

This verse highlights the obligation to obey those in authority, as long as their commands align with the teachings of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ).

Another verse that supports the concept of obedience is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, where Allah says, (Quran 5:92)

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you

This verse reiterates the importance of obeying both Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), as well as those in positions of authority.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that the most deserving of our obedience is someone who possesses qualities and authority that make them worthy of our compliance. This person is someone from whom we cannot find any escape or excuse, and whose commands we cannot turn down.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was known for his immense knowledge, wisdom, and piety. His authority and guidance were recognized by both Sunni and Shia Muslims. Therefore, this Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to prioritize obedience to those who possess the qualities and authority that make them deserving of our compliance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of obeying someone who is truly deserving of our obedience. It highlights the obligation to submit to the commands of those who possess the necessary qualities and authority. This obedience should be in accordance with the teachings of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ). May Allah guide us all to obey those who are deserving and grant us the wisdom to discern true authority.