Hadith #1563

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The glance is a pathfinder of infatuations.

This impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of controlling one's gaze and the potential consequences that can arise from uncontrolled glances.

Let us first delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word "glance" refers to the act of looking or casting one's eyes upon something or someone. It signifies a momentary observation that can lead to further contemplation or attraction. The word "pathfinder" refers to a guide or a precursor that leads to a particular destination or outcome. And finally, "infatuations" refers to a strong and often irrational attraction or obsession towards someone or something.

To understand the deeper implications of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah An-Nur, verse 30, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises the believers to lower their gaze: (Quran 24:30)

Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of controlling one's gaze, particularly in relation to matters of modesty and purity. By lowering our gaze, we protect ourselves from falling into sinful thoughts or actions. It serves as a preventative measure against the potential infatuations that can arise from uncontrolled glances.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 32, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against following one's desires: (Quran 17:32)

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse reminds us of the dangers of allowing our desires to lead us astray. Uncontrolled glances can be the starting point of a slippery slope towards immoral actions. By being mindful of our gaze and refraining from indulging in forbidden sights, we protect ourselves from the temptations that can arise from such infatuations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the power of the gaze. It highlights the potential consequences that can arise from uncontrolled glances, leading to infatuations that can cloud one's judgment and lead to sinful actions. By being mindful of our gaze and lowering it when necessary, we protect ourselves from the pitfalls of infatuations and maintain our moral integrity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to control their gaze and be mindful of the potential consequences that can arise from uncontrolled glances. By following the guidance of the Quran and lowering our gaze, we protect ourselves from falling into infatuations and ensure that our actions align with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to control our gaze and protect ourselves from the path of infatuations.