Hadith #388

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Whoever complains about a need to a believer, it is as though he has complained about it to Allah; but whoever complains about it to an unbeliever it is as though he complained about Allah.

This enlightening saying highlights the significance of seeking assistance and support from a believer, as opposed to turning to someone who does not have faith in Allah.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to better understand its meaning. The word (shaka) "شَكَا" means to complain or express one's need or distress. The word (al-hajah) "الْحَاجَةَ" refers to a need or requirement. The word (mu'min) "مُؤْمِنٍ" signifies a believer, someone who has faith in Allah and follows His guidance. On the other hand, the word (kafir) "كَافِرٍ" refers to an unbeliever, someone who denies or rejects the truth of Islam.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 186:

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me [by obedience] and believe in Me that they may be [rightly] guided.

This verse emphasizes the closeness of Allah to His servants and His readiness to respond to their supplications. When a believer is approached with a complaint or need, they act as a means for the supplicant to connect with Allah, as if the complaint is directed towards Allah Himself.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah, verse 4, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

There has already been for you an excellent pattern in Abraham and those with him, when they said to their people, 'Indeed, we are disassociated from you and from whatever you worship other than Allah. We have denied you, and there has appeared between us and you animosity and hatred forever until you believe in Allah alone.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking assistance and support from those who have faith in Allah. Just as Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) distanced himself from his people due to their disbelief, we should also seek help from believers who are aligned with the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that when faced with difficulties or needs, it is crucial to turn to fellow believers who possess knowledge, piety, and a strong connection with Allah. Seeking assistance from such individuals not only allows us to benefit from their wisdom and guidance but also strengthens our own faith and reliance on Allah. By sharing our concerns with a believer, we are essentially entrusting our matters to someone who understands the importance of seeking Allah's help and guidance.

Conversely, complaining about our needs to an unbeliever is akin to complaining about Allah Himself. This is because an unbeliever does not possess the same level of faith, understanding, and connection with Allah. They may not comprehend the significance of seeking Allah's assistance or may even lead us astray from the path of righteousness. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and discernment when seeking support and guidance, ensuring that we turn to those who are firmly grounded in their faith.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking assistance and support from believers when faced with difficulties or needs. By doing so, we establish a connection with Allah and benefit from the wisdom and guidance of those who possess knowledge and piety. Conversely, complaining to an unbeliever is akin to complaining about Allah Himself, as they lack the necessary faith and understanding. As Muslims, it is incumbent upon us to seek help from those who are aligned with the teachings of Islam and possess a strong connection with Allah. May Allah guide us to always seek His assistance through the righteous believers and grant us the wisdom to discern the right path.