Hadith #4365

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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,

لاتَغْنَ بِالرَّذائِلِ فَتَسْقُطَ قيمَتُكَ۔

This Hadith carries a impactful message about the importance of avoiding depravities and vices in order to maintain one's value and worth.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (radha'il) "رَذَائِلِ" refers to depravities or vices, which are actions or behaviors that are morally corrupt or sinful. These can include acts such as lying, backbiting, cheating, and engaging in unlawful activities. The word (tasquṭa) "تَسْقُطَ" means to drop or decrease, indicating that indulging in such depravities diminishes one's value and worth.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true nobility and worth lie in righteousness and piety. When a person indulges in depravities, they distance themselves from righteousness and, consequently, their value diminishes. The more one engages in sinful actions, the further they stray from the path of righteousness, leading to a decrease in their worth.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking strength and steadfastness in our actions. By avoiding depravities, we can maintain a firm and strong character, which contributes to our overall value and worth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their actions and to strive for righteousness. Indulging in depravities not only tarnishes our character but also diminishes our worth in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is crucial to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the impact they have on our spiritual and moral standing.

For instance, if a person engages in backbiting, spreading rumors, or engaging in dishonest practices, their reputation and trustworthiness will be compromised. This can lead to a decrease in their value and worth in the eyes of others. Similarly, if one consistently lies or cheats, their integrity and credibility will be eroded, resulting in a diminished perception of their character.

Moreover, indulging in depravities can have severe consequences on one's spiritual well-being. Engaging in sinful actions distances us from the path of righteousness and weakens our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This separation can lead to a sense of emptiness, guilt, and a loss of inner peace. Thus, the value of a person's faith and spirituality is compromised when they allow themselves to be consumed by depravities.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to avoid indulging in depravities and vices. By maintaining righteousness and piety, we preserve our value and worth in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is essential to reflect on the consequences of our actions, both in this world and the Hereafter, and strive to lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the temptations of depravities.