Hadith #11025

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

Admonitions are the sheen of the souls and the polish of the hearts.

This amazing Hadith highlights the transformative power of admonitions in purifying and enlightening our inner selves.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The term (siqal) "صِقالُ" refers to the sheen or luster that adorns something, making it radiant and attractive. It signifies the enhancement of the souls, bringing out their inherent beauty and brilliance. On the other hand, (jala) "جَلاءُ" means polish or clarity, indicating the removal of impurities and the attainment of a pure and transparent heart.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of purifying the soul and nurturing the heart. In Surah Al-Shams, Allah says, (Quran 91:7-10)

By the soul and He who proportioned it, and inspired it with its wickedness and its righteousness. He has succeeded who purifies it, and he has failed who instills it with corruption.

This verse highlights the struggle between the soul's inclination towards righteousness and its vulnerability to wickedness. It emphasizes the need for purification and the consequences of neglecting this spiritual duty. Admonitions serve as a means to purify the soul, guiding it towards righteousness and protecting it from corruption.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:11)

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding ridicule, insults, and offensive nicknames. It teaches us to be mindful of our words and their impact on others. Admonitions play a crucial role in reminding us of the consequences of our speech and guiding us towards respectful and compassionate communication. They polish our hearts, removing any traces of arrogance, pride, or ill intentions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that admonitions have a profound effect on our souls and hearts. They serve as a source of guidance, enlightenment, and purification. When we receive admonitions with an open heart and a sincere intention to improve ourselves, they can transform our character, elevate our spirituality, and strengthen our connection with Allah.

For example, imagine a person who is prone to anger and frequently engages in arguments. Through the gentle admonitions of a wise friend or a knowledgeable scholar, they begin to reflect on their behavior and realize the negative impact it has on their relationships and their own well-being. As they internalize these admonitions and strive to control their anger, they experience a gradual transformation. Their soul becomes adorned with patience, forgiveness, and compassion, while their heart becomes polished, free from the stains of anger and resentment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the profound impact of admonitions on our souls and hearts. It reminds us of the importance of seeking guidance and accepting constructive criticism with humility and gratitude. By embracing admonitions, we can purify our souls, polish our hearts, and strive towards spiritual excellence. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to benefit from admonitions and the strength to implement them in our lives.