Hadith #11173

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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, "لازادَ كَالتَّقْوى۔" This can be translated into English as,

There is no provision like God-wariness.

In this thought-provoking Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the unparalleled significance and value of taqwa, which is often translated as "God-wariness" or "piety."

Taqwa is a comprehensive concept that encompasses consciousness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of life. It involves being mindful of His presence, obeying His commands, and avoiding His prohibitions. Taqwa is the foundation of righteousness and the key to attaining success in this world and the Hereafter.

The importance of taqwa is emphasized in numerous verses of the Quran. For example, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says 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 among you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that the true measure of nobility and superiority in the sight of Allah is not based on wealth, lineage, or worldly status, but rather on taqwa. It is the level of one's consciousness of Allah and adherence to His guidance that truly matters.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Hajj is [during] well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by entering the state of ihram], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no disputing during Hajj. And whatever good you do - Allah knows it. And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

In this verse, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of taqwa even in the context of performing the obligatory pilgrimage of Hajj. While taking provisions for the journey is necessary, Allah reminds us that the best provision one can have is taqwa. This highlights that taqwa is not only essential for spiritual growth and righteousness but also for practical matters in our daily lives.

Imam Ali's statement,

There is no provision like God-wariness,

serves as a reminder to Muslims that taqwa should be the primary focus and priority in our lives. It should guide our actions, decisions, and interactions with others. Taqwa acts as a shield against sin, protects us from the temptations of this world, and helps us maintain a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

When we prioritize taqwa, we become more conscious of our intentions and actions. We strive to please Allah in everything we do, seeking His pleasure above all else. This consciousness leads to a life of righteousness, justice, and compassion. It motivates us to fulfill our obligations towards Allah and His creation, and to avoid any form of wrongdoing or harm.

Moreover, taqwa has profound consequences for both individuals and society. On an individual level, it brings peace, contentment, and tranquility to the heart. It helps us overcome our desires and temptations, leading to self-discipline and self-improvement. Taqwa also serves as a source of guidance and protection, helping us navigate the challenges and trials of life.

On a societal level, taqwa fosters a harmonious and just community. It promotes honesty, integrity, and fairness in all dealings. It encourages individuals to fulfill their responsibilities towards their families, neighbors, and society at large. Taqwa creates an environment of trust, cooperation, and mutual respect, where the rights of others are upheld and social justice is prioritized.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's statement,

There is no provision like God-wariness,

highlights the unparalleled significance of taqwa in the life of a Muslim. Taqwa serves as a guiding principle that shapes our thoughts, actions, and interactions. It is the key to attaining success in this world and the Hereafter, and it has profound consequences for both individuals and society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate and strengthen our taqwa, and may it be a source of blessings and guidance in our lives.