Hadith #1701

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of becoming anxious or losing hope in the face of difficulties. Let us delve into the exegesis of this thought-provoking saying and explore its meaning in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (jaza'a) "جَزَعَ" in the Hadith refers to a state of anxiety, worry, or distress. It is a state where one becomes overwhelmed by fear and loses hope in the mercy and assistance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that such a state of mind has severe consequences, as it torments the individual and causes them to suffer mentally and emotionally.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 emphasizes the importance of patience and reliance on Allah during times of distress. Anxiousness and despair only lead to further torment and distance us from the command of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that becoming anxious neglects the command of Allah. This implies that when we allow ourselves to be consumed by worry and fear, we lose sight of the guidance and instructions given to us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Instead of placing our trust in Him and following His guidance, we become preoccupied with our own concerns and fail to fulfill our obligations as Muslims.

The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Hijr echoes this sentiment, (Quran 15:45)

So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers

This verse reminds us to remain steadfast and not let anxiety or grief overpower us. By maintaining our faith and trust in Allah, we can rise above our challenges and fulfill our duties as believers.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes the Hadith by stating that one who becomes anxious has essentially sold off their reward. This means that by allowing anxiety to consume us, we lose the opportunity to earn the rewards and blessings promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Instead of patiently enduring hardships and seeking solace in Allah's mercy, we surrender our chance for spiritual growth and the ultimate reward in the Hereafter.

The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Baqarah reinforces this concept, (Quran 10:9)

Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds - their Lord will guide them because of their faith. Beneath them rivers will flow in the Gardens of Pleasure

This verse highlights the importance of faith and righteous actions, which can only be achieved by overcoming anxiety and placing our trust in Allah's guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid becoming anxious and losing hope in the face of difficulties. By relying on Allah's guidance, practicing patience, and maintaining faith, we can overcome challenges and earn the ultimate reward promised by our Lord. Let us strive to embody the qualities of steadfastness and trust in Allah, as exemplified by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and seek solace in His mercy during times of distress. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to overcome anxiety and remain steadfast on the path of righteousness.