Hadith #9739

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 and noble family, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Whoever conceals his hidden ailment, his physician becomes incapable of curing him.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of acknowledging and openly addressing our inner struggles and weaknesses. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (maknoon) "مَكْنُونَ" in the Hadith refers to something hidden or concealed. It represents the inner ailments and struggles that we may face, whether they are physical, emotional, or spiritual. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that concealing these hidden ailments can lead to a detrimental consequence - the incapability of finding a cure.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran of the importance of seeking help and guidance when we are faced with difficulties. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:45)

And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah]

This verse encourages us to openly seek help and support from Allah and from those around us.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and acknowledging our weaknesses. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:70)

And We have certainly created man weak

This verse reminds us that as human beings, we are inherently prone to weaknesses and struggles. Therefore, it is crucial for us to recognize and address these hidden ailments in order to find healing and growth.

Concealing our hidden ailments can have grave consequences. By keeping our struggles hidden, we deny ourselves the opportunity for healing and growth. It is like having a physical ailment but refusing to seek medical attention. The physician, in this case, becomes incapable of providing a cure because they are unaware of the ailment.

Similarly, when we conceal our inner struggles, we prevent others from offering their support and guidance. We isolate ourselves and deny the possibility of finding solace and relief. By opening up and sharing our hidden ailments, we allow others to provide the necessary support and guidance, just as a physician can only treat a patient when they are aware of the ailment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazing Hadith serves as a reminder for us to be honest with ourselves and with those around us. It encourages us to seek help and support when we are faced with difficulties. By acknowledging and openly addressing our hidden ailments, we create an environment of understanding and compassion, allowing for healing and growth to take place.

Let us reflect on this Hadith and strive to be open and honest about our struggles. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and courage to seek help when needed and to support others in their times of need. May we find healing and growth through our openness and vulnerability.