Hadith #42

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,

سَيِّئَةٌ تَسُوءُكَ خَيْرٌ عِنْدَاللهِ مِنْ حَسَنَةٍ تُعْجِبُكَ۔

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights a significant aspect of our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (sayyiah) "سَيِّئَةٌ" refers to a sin or an evil deed. It is an action that goes against the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and brings about negative consequences. On the other hand, the word (hasanah) "حَسَنَةٍ" refers to a virtue or a good deed. It is an action that aligns with the teachings of Islam and brings about positive outcomes.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the sin which displeases us, meaning the sin that we regret and feel remorseful about, is better in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) than a virtue that makes us proud. This statement challenges our perception of good and evil, reminding us that our understanding may not always align with the divine wisdom.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216:

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse emphasizes that our limited knowledge and understanding may lead us to dislike something that is ultimately beneficial for us, or to love something that is harmful.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 28, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that the material possessions and worldly achievements that we often take pride in are merely tests from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They should not be the source of our arrogance or self-importance.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that a sin which brings about remorse and leads us to seek forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is better than a virtue that makes us proud and self-conceited. This is because the act of recognizing our mistakes and seeking repentance demonstrates humility, sincerity, and a deep connection with our Creator.

For example, if a person commits a sin and feels remorseful, they are more likely to turn to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in sincere repentance, seeking His forgiveness and guidance. This act of humility and submission to Allah's mercy and forgiveness is highly valued in Islam. On the other hand, if a person becomes proud and conceited due to their virtuous deeds, they may fall into the trap of self-righteousness and arrogance, which are detested by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their intentions and actions. It teaches us that true virtue lies not in the external display of good deeds, but in the sincerity and humility with which we approach them. It urges us to be cautious of our ego and to seek Allah's pleasure above all else.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that a sin which brings about remorse and leads to seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is better than a virtue that makes us proud and self-conceited. This Hadith aligns with the Quranic teachings, reminding us of our limited knowledge and the importance of humility and sincerity in our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May we always strive to seek Allah's forgiveness and remain humble in our pursuit of righteousness.