Hadith #5123

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

مُتَّقِي الشَّرِّ كَفاعِلِ الْخَيْرِ۔

which translates to

One who is cautious of evil is like the one who does good.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of being vigilant and cautious in avoiding evil, as it holds the same weight as actively engaging in acts of goodness.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (muttaqi) "مُتَّقِي" refers to someone who is God-conscious, pious, and cautious in their actions. This term is derived from the root word (waqa) "وَقَى", which means to protect or guard against something. It implies a sense of mindfulness and awareness in avoiding anything that may lead to harm or wrongdoing.

The word (ash-sharr) "الشَّرِّ" refers to evil, harm, or anything that goes against the teachings of Islam. It encompasses both major sins and minor sins, as well as any action that may lead to negative consequences in this world or the hereafter.

On the other hand, (al-khayr) "الْخَيْرِ" refers to goodness, righteousness, and acts that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses acts of worship, kindness, charity, and any action that brings benefit to oneself and others.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:11):

And among the people is he who worships Allah on an edge. If he is touched by good, he is reassured by it; but if he is struck by trial, he turns on his face [to the other direction]. He has lost [this] world and the Hereafter. That is what is the manifest loss.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being steadfast in one's faith and actions. It warns against being inconsistent in worship and only seeking goodness when it is convenient. Such a person is like one who turns away from good when faced with trials and hardships, ultimately leading to loss in both this world and the hereafter.

Another relevant verse is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2):

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the importance of cooperating in acts of righteousness and piety, while abstaining from sin and aggression. It emphasizes the need to be cautious and mindful of our actions, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is severe in punishment for those who engage in evil.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand that being cautious of evil is not merely about refraining from sinful actions, but also about actively seeking goodness and righteousness. It is about being aware of the consequences of our actions and striving to make choices that align with the teachings of Islam.

By being cautious of evil, we protect ourselves from falling into sinful behaviors and harmful consequences. This caution is not limited to avoiding major sins, but also extends to minor sins and even actions that may lead to negative outcomes. It is a mindset of constantly seeking Allah's pleasure and striving to do what is right in every aspect of our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being cautious of evil and its equivalence to doing good. It reminds us to be mindful of our actions, to avoid anything that goes against the teachings of Islam, and to actively seek goodness and righteousness in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be truly muttaqi and may He guide us to the path of righteousness.