Hadith #2038

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 defending one's religion and seeking victory with the help of Allah. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

The first important word in this Hadith is (dhubba) "ظُبَى", which refers to the edge of blades or swords. This signifies the physical aspect of defending one's religion, indicating that Muslims should be ready to protect their faith and beliefs when faced with opposition or aggression. This is in line with the Quranic teachings that encourage Muslims to stand firm in the face of adversity and defend the truth.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran (22:39):

Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them victory.

This verse highlights the permission granted to Muslims to defend themselves when they are oppressed or attacked. It is a call to action, urging believers to use the means at their disposal, including physical force if necessary, to protect their religion and their rights.

The second important word in the Hadith is (khatta') "خُطَاء", which means to charge forward or advance. This signifies the need for Muslims to actively engage in the defense of their religion, not only through physical means but also through intellectual and spiritual efforts. It encourages Muslims to take proactive steps in spreading the message of Islam and confronting falsehood.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran (9:29):

Fight those who do not believe in Allah or in the Last Day and who do not consider unlawful what Allah and His Messenger have made unlawful and who do not adopt the religion of truth from those who were given the Scripture - [fight] until they give the jizyah willingly while they are humbled.

This verse highlights the obligation of Muslims to confront those who oppose the truth and refuse to accept the message of Islam. It emphasizes the need to actively engage in the defense of the religion, both intellectually and physically, against those who seek to undermine it.

The third important phrase in the Hadith is (intasiru billah tazfaru wa tunsaru)

انْتَصرُوا بِاللّهِ تَظْفَرُوا وتُنْصَرُوا

which means to seek the help of Allah and gain victory. This emphasizes the ultimate reliance on Allah in all matters, including the defense of one's religion. It reminds Muslims that victory comes from Allah alone, and success is achieved through His support and assistance.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran (3:160):

If Allah should aid you, no one can overcome you; but if He should forsake you, who is there that can aid you after Him? And upon Allah let the believers rely.

This verse reminds Muslims that true victory and success come only from Allah. It encourages believers to place their trust in Him and seek His help in all endeavors, including the defense of their religion. It is a reminder that relying on Allah's support and assistance is the key to achieving victory in this world and the hereafter.

In light of these Quranic verses, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a call to action for Muslims. It reminds us of the importance of actively defending our religion, both physically and intellectually, against those who seek to harm or distort it. It encourages us to seek victory through reliance on Allah and His support, knowing that true success lies in His hands alone.

Furthermore, this Hadith highlights the courage and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali possessed immense wisdom and understanding of the teachings of Islam. His words serve as a guiding light for Muslims, inspiring them to defend their faith with strength, conviction, and reliance on Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of their duty to actively defend their religion and seek victory with the help of Allah. It emphasizes the importance of physical, intellectual, and spiritual efforts in upholding the truth and confronting falsehood. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to fulfill this duty and may He bless us with His support and assistance.