Hadith #84

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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 rectifying one's relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the subsequent effects it has on one's relationships with others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that whoever sets right their affairs with Allah, Allah will set right their affairs with people. This means that when a person sincerely turns to Allah, seeking His forgiveness and guidance, Allah will facilitate harmonious relationships between that person and others.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications. The word (aslaha) "أَصْلَحَ" means to rectify, improve, or set right. It signifies the act of making amends and seeking reconciliation. In this context, it refers to the individual's efforts to mend their relationship with Allah and others.

The phrase (ma baynah wa bayna Allah)

مَا بَيْنَهُ وَبَيْنَ اللهِ

translates to

between himself and Allah.

It signifies the personal connection and bond that an individual shares with their Creator. It encompasses all aspects of one's life, including their beliefs, actions, and intentions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that if a person sets right the affairs of their next life, Allah will set right their affairs in this world. This means that when an individual prioritizes their spiritual well-being and strives to improve their conduct in accordance with the teachings of Islam, Allah will bless them with success and prosperity in their worldly affairs. This is a manifestation of Allah's mercy and His promise to reward those who seek His pleasure.

To support this exegesis, we find numerous Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of rectifying one's relationship with Allah and the subsequent positive effects it has on one's interactions with others. Allah says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10):

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships among believers and emphasizes the need to fear Allah in order to receive His mercy.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah states:

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 significance of obedience to Allah and His Messenger, as well as the detrimental effects of disputes and divisions among Muslims. By rectifying our relationship with Allah, we can avoid conflicts and strengthen our unity as a community.

The Hadith also mentions that whoever is a preacher for themselves is protected by Allah. This implies that when an individual advises and reminds themselves of their duties and responsibilities towards Allah, they are granted divine protection. This protection encompasses both physical and spiritual well-being, as Allah safeguards those who strive to remain steadfast on the right path.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of rectifying one's relationship with Allah and the subsequent positive effects it has on one's relationships with others. By prioritizing our spiritual well-being and seeking forgiveness and guidance from Allah, we can experience harmony and prosperity in our interactions with fellow Muslims and society at large. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly strive for self-improvement and to seek Allah's pleasure in all aspects of their lives. May Allah guide us all to rectify our affairs and grant us His protection.