Hadith #7807

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

مَنْ عَمِيَ عَمّا بَيْنَ يَدَيْهِ غَرَسَ الشَّكَّ بَيْنَ جَنْبَيْهِ۔

This Hadith carries a impactful message about the consequences of being ignorant or blind to the realities that are right in front of us.

Let us begin by examining the key words in this Hadith. The word (amiya) "عَمِيَ" means to be blind or unaware. It refers to a state of being ignorant or oblivious to something. (bayna yadayhi) "بَيْنَ يَدَيْهِ" means that which is in front of him. It signifies the present reality or the immediate circumstances that one is facing. Finally, (gharas al-shakka bayna janbayhi)

غَرَسَ الشَّكَّ بَيْنَ جَنْبَيْهِ

translates to instilling doubt within oneself. It implies that when one is blind to the truth, they open the door for doubt and uncertainty to take root within them.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 46:

Have they not traveled through the land, and have they hearts wherewith to understand and ears wherewith to hear? Verily, it is not the eyes that grow blind, but it is the hearts which are in the breasts that grow blind.

This verse highlights the importance of not only physical sight but also spiritual insight. It emphasizes that true blindness lies in the heart, which fails to comprehend the signs of Allah and the realities of the world. When one is blind to the truth, they become susceptible to doubt and confusion, just as the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) suggests.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of being blind to the present reality is found in Surah Al-An'am, verse 50:

Say, 'I do not tell you that I possess the treasures of Allah, nor that I know the unseen, nor do I tell you that I am an angel. I only follow what is revealed to me.' Say, 'Are the blind and the seeing equal? Then will you not give thought?'

This verse highlights the distinction between those who are blind to the truth and those who can see and comprehend. It reminds us that there is a significant difference between those who are aware of the present reality and those who are ignorant or blind to it. The blind, in this context, refers to those who are spiritually blind and fail to recognize the signs of Allah and the guidance that has been revealed.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). When one is blind to the present reality, they are unable to perceive the truth and are more likely to be influenced by doubt and uncertainty. This blindness can manifest in various aspects of life, including religious, social, and personal matters.

For example, if a person is blind to the teachings of Islam and fails to understand the essence of faith, they may fall into the trap of doubt and confusion. Similarly, if someone is blind to the injustices and inequalities present in society, they may become complacent and fail to take action for positive change. On a personal level, being blind to one's own flaws and shortcomings can hinder personal growth and development.

The consequences of being blind to the present reality are far-reaching. It can lead to a lack of conviction, weakened faith, and a loss of direction in life. It can also create divisions and misunderstandings among individuals and communities. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to strive for knowledge and awareness, to seek the truth, and to be mindful of the present reality.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be vigilant and aware of the present reality. It warns against the dangers of being blind or ignorant to the truth, as it can lead to doubt and uncertainty. By seeking knowledge, understanding the signs of Allah, and reflecting on the teachings of the Quran, Muslims can avoid falling into the trap of blindness and strive for a deeper understanding of the world around them. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to see and comprehend the truth, and protect us from the blindness of ignorance and doubt.