Hadith #1029

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the importance of enjoining good and forbidding evil, and the rewards and virtues associated with it. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its key words and their meanings, and then seek support from the Quran to further understand its significance.

The first important word in this Hadith is (enjoining good and forbidding evil)

الأمْرَ بالمَعروفِ والنَّهيَ عنِ المُنْكَرِ

"الأمْرَ" refers to commanding or instructing, while "المَعروفِ" refers to that which is recognized as good or virtuous. On the other hand, "النَّهيَ" refers to prohibiting or discouraging, and "المُنْكَرِ" refers to that which is recognized as evil or sinful. Thus, enjoining good and forbidding evil encompasses the act of promoting virtuous deeds and discouraging sinful actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that this noble act does not bring death closer nor diminish sustenance. This means that engaging in enjoining good and forbidding evil does not have any negative impact on one's lifespan or material provisions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and our efforts to promote righteousness and discourage evil will not hinder His blessings upon us.

To reinforce this point, let us turn to the Quran. In Surah Hud, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (11:51)

And O my people, I do not ask you for it any reward. My reward is only from the one who created me. Then will you not reason?

This verse reminds us that our actions should be solely for the sake of Allah, and not driven by worldly gains. When we enjoin good and forbid evil, we are fulfilling our duty as Muslims, seeking the pleasure of Allah and not expecting any worldly rewards.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that enjoining good and forbidding evil actually multiplies our rewards and magnifies our recompense. This means that the act of promoting righteousness and discouraging evil is highly meritorious in the sight of Allah. Our efforts in this regard are not in vain; rather, they are greatly rewarded and esteemed by our Creator.

In Surah Al-Tawbah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (9:71)

The believing men and believing women are allies of one another. They enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and establish prayer and give zakah and obey Allah and His Messenger. Those - Allah will have mercy upon them. Indeed, Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.

This verse highlights the significance of enjoining good and forbidding evil as an essential characteristic of believers. Allah promises His mercy upon those who engage in this noble act, further emphasizing the immense rewards associated with it.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that a just word in the presence of an oppressive ruler is even better than enjoining good and forbidding evil. This highlights the importance of speaking truth to power and standing up against injustice, even in the face of adversity. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this quality throughout his life, fearlessly speaking out against oppression and advocating for justice.

In Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (5:8)

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice and fairness, even when faced with opposition. A just word in the presence of an oppressive ruler reflects the strength of one's faith and commitment to righteousness.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of enjoining good and forbidding evil, and the abundant rewards associated with it. It reminds us that our efforts to promote righteousness and discourage evil are not in vain, but rather greatly esteemed by Allah. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of speaking truth to power and standing up against injustice, even in the face of adversity. May Allah grant us the wisdom and courage to fulfill our duty of enjoining good and forbidding evil, and may He reward us abundantly for our efforts.