Hadith #371

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

مَنْ صَارَعَ الْحَقَّ صَرَعَهُ۔

This can be translated as:

Whoever clashes with Truth would be knocked down by it.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

Let us first analyze the key words in this Hadith. The word (saara'a) "صَارَعَ" means to clash or contend with, while (al-haqq) "الْحَقَّ" refers to the Truth. The word (sar'ahu) "صَرَعَهُ" means to be knocked down or defeated by it.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance for all Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking and upholding the Truth. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 81, Allah says:

And say: 'Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed is falsehood, [by nature], ever bound to depart.'

This verse highlights the eternal nature of Truth and the inevitable defeat of falsehood.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 18, Allah states:

Rather, We dash the truth upon falsehood, and it destroys it, and thereupon it departs.

This verse illustrates the overpowering nature of Truth and its ability to annihilate falsehood.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement aligns perfectly with these Quranic teachings. It serves as a reminder that whoever opposes or clashes with the Truth will ultimately be defeated and knocked down by it. This can be understood in various contexts.

On an individual level, when a person goes against the Truth, whether it be through their actions, beliefs, or intentions, they are essentially fighting against the divine guidance and wisdom bestowed upon us by Allah. Such individuals may experience setbacks, hardships, and a sense of inner turmoil as a consequence of their defiance.

On a societal level, when falsehood and injustice prevail over Truth and righteousness, the consequences can be devastating. History is replete with examples of societies that disregarded the Truth and were ultimately brought to ruin. The clash between Truth and falsehood is an ongoing struggle, and it is incumbent upon Muslims to stand firmly on the side of Truth, even in the face of adversity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful saying also serves as a motivation for Muslims to seek knowledge and strive for a deeper understanding of the Truth. The more we equip ourselves with knowledge, the better prepared we are to discern between Truth and falsehood. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, and his teachings continue to inspire Muslims to this day.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the eternal nature of Truth and its ultimate triumph over falsehood. It serves as a warning to those who oppose the Truth, and a motivation for Muslims to seek knowledge and uphold the principles of Truth in all aspects of their lives. May Allah guide us all to the path of Truth and grant us the strength to stand firm in its defense.