Hadith #10188

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Do not obey women in good [actions] such that they expect [your obedience] in evil.

This Hadith highlights the importance of maintaining balance and righteousness in our actions, particularly in our relationships with women.

Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (obey) "طيعوا" comes from the root word "طاعة" which means obedience. It implies following someone's command or complying with their wishes. The word (women) "نساء" refers to the female gender. The word (good) "معروف" refers to actions that are morally upright, virtuous, and in accordance with the teachings of Islam. On the other hand, the word (evil) "منكر" refers to actions that are sinful, forbidden, and go against the teachings of Islam.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa (4:34),

Men are in charge of women by [right of] what Allah has given one over the other and what they spend [for maintenance] from their wealth.

This verse establishes the principle of gender roles and responsibilities within the family structure. It emphasizes that men have a leadership role and are responsible for maintaining and providing for their families.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:228), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And due to the wives is similar to what is expected of them, according to what is reasonable. But the men have a degree over them [in responsibility and authority].

This verse highlights the importance of mutual respect and understanding between spouses, while also acknowledging the role of men as leaders in the family.

Based on these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is advising us not to blindly follow the desires or whims of women, especially when it comes to matters that are contrary to the teachings of Islam. It does not imply disrespect or disregard for women, but rather emphasizes the importance of maintaining righteousness and upholding the principles of Islam in all aspects of our lives.

For example, if a woman requests her husband to engage in an action that is sinful or forbidden, such as engaging in dishonest business practices or neglecting religious obligations, the husband should not comply with her request. Instead, he should kindly and respectfully explain the reasons why such actions are not in accordance with the teachings of Islam. This is because obedience to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) takes precedence over any other form of obedience.

Similarly, this Hadith also serves as a reminder for women to be mindful of their requests and expectations. They should not seek obedience from their husbands or any other individuals in matters that are sinful or go against the teachings of Islam. Instead, they should strive to encourage righteousness and support their spouses in fulfilling their religious obligations.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of maintaining balance and righteousness in our actions, particularly in our relationships with women. It advises us not to blindly obey women in matters that are contrary to the teachings of Islam. Instead, we should strive to uphold the principles of Islam and prioritize obedience to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) above all else. May Allah guide us all in following the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to make decisions that are pleasing to Him.