Hadith #10933

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) states, "لاوَرَعَ كَغَلَبَةِ الشَّهْوَةِ۔" This can be translated as,

There is no piety like overcoming [one’s] lust.

In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-control and restraining one's desires. The word (lawara'a) "لاوَرَعَ" refers to piety, righteousness, or the act of avoiding sin. It signifies a state of being cautious and vigilant in abstaining from actions that are displeasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (kaghalabati) "كَغَلَبَةِ" means "like overcoming" or "similar to conquering." And the word (al-shahwah) "الشَّهْوَةِ" refers to lust or desire, specifically referring to the base desires of the self.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-control and overcoming one's desires. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 3:134)

And those who restrain their anger and pardon people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of controlling one's anger, which is a form of desire, and instead choosing forgiveness and patience. It is through this self-control that one attains piety and righteousness.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Naziat, where Allah says, (Quran 79:40-41)

But as for he who feared the position of his Lord and prevented the soul from [unlawful] inclination, then indeed, Paradise will be [his] refuge.

This verse emphasizes the need to prevent the soul from inclining towards unlawful desires. By restraining oneself and avoiding sinful inclinations, one earns the reward of Paradise.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize self-control and to overcome their base desires. It highlights the significance of restraining oneself from indulging in unlawful actions, whether it be in matters of wealth, power, or physical desires. By conquering our desires, we demonstrate our commitment to righteousness and piety.

This Hadith also teaches us that true piety is not merely about performing rituals or outwardly displaying religious acts. It goes beyond that, to the inner struggle of self-discipline and self-restraint. It reminds us that our actions should be driven by a sincere desire to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to seek His pleasure.

When we reflect on the consequences of not overcoming our lusts, we realize that it can lead us astray and distance us from the path of righteousness. Uncontrolled desires can lead to sinful actions, which in turn can have detrimental effects on our spiritual well-being and our relationships with others. By practicing self-control and restraining our desires, we protect ourselves from falling into sin and maintain a state of purity and righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening words serve as a constant reminder for Muslims to strive for self-control and to overcome their base desires. It is through this struggle that we can attain true piety and righteousness, and ultimately seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to overcome our lusts and to continuously strive for righteousness.