Hadith #2880

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of being pleased with the guidance and leadership of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in order to attain salvation. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this amazing Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (be pleased) "ارض" in the Hadith refers to accepting, embracing, and being content with the guidance and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It signifies a state of complete satisfaction and submission to his authority. This word highlights the significance of recognizing the Prophet (ﷺ) as the ultimate source of guidance and following his example in all aspects of life.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of following the Prophet (ﷺ) in the Quran. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (3:31)

Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful'

This verse clearly establishes the connection between loving Allah and following the Prophet (ﷺ). It is through following the Prophet's (ﷺ) guidance that we can attain the love and forgiveness of Allah.

Furthermore, the word (Muhammad) "محمد" in the Hadith refers to the Prophet (ﷺ) himself, who was chosen by Allah as the final and greatest messenger. The name Muhammad means "the praised one," and indeed, he is praised by Allah in the Quran. In Surah Al-Ahzab, Allah says, (33:56)

Indeed, Allah confers blessing upon the Prophet, and His angels [ask Him to do so]. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace

This verse highlights the exalted status of the Prophet (ﷺ) and the importance of sending blessings upon him.

The phrase (peace and blessings be upon him)

صلَّى اللّه عليه وآله وسلَّم

is a common invocation used by Muslims to show respect and honor to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It is a way of acknowledging his noble character, his role as the final messenger, and seeking blessings from Allah for him. This phrase is mentioned in the Hadith to remind us of the importance of honoring and respecting the Prophet (ﷺ) in our daily lives.

The Hadith also mentions the concept of (guide or role model) "رائِداً". This signifies that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is not only a source of guidance but also a perfect example to emulate in our actions, beliefs, and character. Allah says in the Quran, (33:21)

There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day and [who] remembers Allah often

This verse highlights the Prophet's (ﷺ) exemplary conduct and encourages us to follow his footsteps.

Moreover, the Hadith mentions that the Prophet (ﷺ) is the one who will lead us to salvation. This emphasizes the crucial role of the Prophet (ﷺ) in guiding humanity towards the path of righteousness and ultimate success in the Hereafter. In Surah Al-A'raf, Allah says, (20:47)

And if they had followed the right way, We would have given them abundant provision. So whoever follows My guidance will neither go astray [in the world] nor suffer [in the Hereafter]

This verse highlights the importance of following Allah's guidance, which is conveyed to us through the Prophet (ﷺ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of being pleased with the guidance and leadership of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as our guide and role model. It highlights the importance of recognizing the Prophet (ﷺ) as the ultimate source of guidance and following his example in all aspects of life. By doing so, we can attain the love and forgiveness of Allah and ultimately achieve salvation in the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to wholeheartedly embrace the guidance of the Prophet (ﷺ) and follow his noble example.