Hadith #1166

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 أجارَ المُسْتَغيثَ، أجارَهُ اللّهُ سُبْحانَه مِنْ عذابِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever gives refuge to the one who seeks his help, Allah will grant him refuge from His punishment.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (ajara) "أجارَ" in the Hadith means to provide refuge or shelter to someone seeking help. It signifies the act of offering protection and support to those who are in need. This act of kindness and compassion is highly regarded in Islam, as it reflects the noble qualities of mercy and empathy that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon His creation.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hajj, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 76:8-9)

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of helping those in need without expecting anything in return. It highlights the selflessness and sincerity that should accompany acts of charity and refuge. By providing shelter to the one seeking help, we are fulfilling our duty as Muslims to assist and support our fellow human beings, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Furthermore, the Hadith reminds us of the divine promise of Allah's refuge from His punishment for those who offer refuge to others. This promise is rooted in the Quranic teachings. In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 8:30)

And [remember] when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse highlights the divine protection that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) provides to His righteous servants. Just as Allah protected the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the early Muslims from the plots of their enemies, He promises to grant refuge to those who offer refuge to others. This divine promise serves as a motivation for us to emulate the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and extend our support to those in need.

The consequences of practicing this Hadith are far-reaching. By offering refuge to those who seek our help, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society. Our actions can have a profound impact on the lives of others, providing them with a sense of security, dignity, and hope. Moreover, by embodying the qualities of compassion and mercy, we strive to emulate the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of empathy and kindness in our interactions with others. It serves as a call to action, urging us to extend our support to those who are vulnerable and in need. By doing so, we not only fulfill our religious obligations but also contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the significance of offering refuge to those who seek our help. It emphasizes the importance of compassion, empathy, and selflessness in our interactions with others. By practicing this Hadith, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these noble qualities and seek His refuge from His punishment.