Hadith #10541

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ رَخَّصَ لِنَفْسِهِ ذَهَبَتْ بِهِ في مَذاهِبِ الظُّلْمَةِ۔

This Hadith warns us about the consequences of allowing our carnal desires to have free reign over our actions. It cautions that if one leaves their soul unchecked and allows it to do as it pleases, they will be led astray into the paths of darkness and evil.

To better understand the wise message of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (rakhassa) "رَخَّصَ" refers to giving oneself permission or granting oneself freedom. It implies a lack of restraint and control over one's desires. (dhahabat) "ذَهَبَتْ" means to be taken away or led astray, while (mazahib) "مَذاهِبِ" refers to paths or ways of life. Finally, (adh-dhulumat) "الظُّلْمَةِ" signifies darkness and evil.

This Hadith is in line with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-control and the dangers of following one's base desires. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Yusuf (12:53),

And I do not acquit myself. Indeed, the soul is a persistent enjoiner of evil, except those upon which my Lord has mercy.

This verse highlights the inherent inclination of the human soul towards evil, and the need for divine mercy to overcome it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:50), Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

But if they do not respond to you - then know that they only follow their [own] desires. And who is more astray than one who follows his desire without guidance from Allah?

This verse emphasizes that blindly following one's desires without guidance from Allah leads to misguidance and deviation.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to exercise self-control and discipline in their lives. It highlights the importance of aligning our actions with the teachings of Islam and seeking guidance from Allah. When we allow our desires to dictate our decisions, we become vulnerable to the paths of darkness and evil.

For example, if a person gives in to their desire for material wealth and becomes consumed by greed, they may resort to unethical means to accumulate wealth, such as engaging in fraud or exploitation. This not only harms others but also tarnishes their own soul, leading them further away from the path of righteousness.

Similarly, if one indulges in their desires for power and authority, they may oppress and exploit others to maintain their position. This goes against the principles of justice and fairness that Islam upholds. Such actions not only harm individuals but also create a society plagued by injustice and inequality.

The consequences of following our base desires are not limited to this world alone. In the Hereafter, those who allowed their souls to lead them astray will face the consequences of their actions. Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ) warns in Surah Al-Qiyamah (75:26-27),

Does man think that he will be left neglected? Had he not been a sperm from semen emitted?

These verses remind us that we will be held accountable for our actions, and indulging in our desires without restraint will have severe consequences.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to exercise self-control and discipline in their lives. It warns against the dangers of allowing our carnal desires to have free reign, as it leads us down the paths of darkness and evil. By aligning our actions with the teachings of Islam and seeking guidance from Allah, we can protect ourselves from the pitfalls of following our base desires. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to overcome our desires and walk the path of righteousness.