Hadith #6027

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of abandoning aggression and obstinacy, and instead, embracing obedience and submission to Allah. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening saying and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in the Hadith. The word (obedience) "طاعَةَ" refers to willingly complying with the commands of Allah and His Messenger. It entails submitting to the will of Allah and following His guidance in all aspects of life. On the other hand, (aggression) "بَغْيِ" refers to transgression, rebellion, and going against the boundaries set by Allah. It includes acts of injustice, oppression, and disobedience. Similarly, (obduracy) "عِنادِ" signifies stubbornness, resistance, and refusal to accept the truth.

To understand the significance of Imam Ali's advice, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:208):

O you who have believed, enter into peace completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of embracing peace and avoiding the path of Satan, who is the epitome of aggression and obstinacy. By following the path of obedience and submission, we distance ourselves from the influence of Satan and his destructive ways.

Furthermore, Allah reminds us in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46):

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the detrimental consequences of disputes and arguments, which stem from aggression and obstinacy. By abandoning such behavior and embracing obedience, we preserve our strength and unity as a Muslim community.

Imam Ali's advice serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and choices. By choosing the path of obedience and submission, we attain happiness and success in the Hereafter. This is because obedience to Allah leads to His pleasure and the attainment of His mercy and forgiveness. It also brings us closer to the righteous deeds that secure our place in Paradise.

Conversely, following the path of aggression and obstinacy leads to misery and regret. It distances us from the mercy of Allah and exposes us to His wrath and punishment. The consequences of such behavior can be seen in the stories of the past nations mentioned in the Quran, who were destroyed due to their disobedience and arrogance.

Imam Ali's profound advice serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to evaluate their actions and align themselves with the teachings of Islam. By abandoning aggression and obstinacy, and instead embracing obedience and submission to Allah, we pave the way for a righteous and fulfilling life. May Allah guide us all to follow the path of obedience and submission, and may He grant us happiness in the Hereafter.