Hadith #8401

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لاصَلاحَ مَعَ إفْساد۔" This concise statement carries a enlightening message about the relationship between rectitude and corruption. Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding.

The word (salah) "صَلاحَ" refers to rectitude, righteousness, and goodness. It encompasses all actions and behaviors that align with the teachings of Islam and lead to spiritual and moral elevation. (ma'a) "مَعَ" means "with" or "alongside," indicating a connection or association. And (ifsad) "إفْساد" refers to corruption, disorder, and deviation from the right path.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:11),

And when it is said to them, 'Do not cause corruption on the earth,' they say, 'We are but reformers.'

This verse highlights the danger of those who claim to be reformers while engaging in corrupt practices. It emphasizes that true rectitude cannot coexist with corruption.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse encourages Muslims to strive for the Hereafter while fulfilling their worldly responsibilities. It emphasizes the importance of doing good and avoiding corruption, as corruption is detested by Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. It teaches us that righteousness and corruption are incompatible. One cannot claim to be on the path of rectitude while engaging in corrupt practices. The pursuit of goodness and the propagation of justice cannot be achieved if one indulges in dishonesty, oppression, or any form of wrongdoing.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their actions and intentions. It urges us to strive for purity and integrity in all aspects of our lives. Whether it is in our personal relationships, professional endeavors, or societal interactions, we must always uphold the principles of righteousness and distance ourselves from corruption.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this teaching throughout his life. His unwavering commitment to justice and his refusal to compromise his principles serve as an inspiration for Muslims of all generations.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "لاصَلاحَ مَعَ إفْساد۔" conveys a wise message about the incompatibility of rectitude and corruption. It reminds us that true righteousness cannot coexist with corrupt practices. As Muslims, we are called upon to strive for goodness, justice, and integrity in all aspects of our lives, following the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from corruption.