Hadith #10016

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

لالَوْمَ لِهارِب مِنْ حَتْفِهِ۔

which translates to

There is no blame on the one who flees from his death.

This statement holds connotation and can be understood in light of the teachings of the Quran.

The word (laalama) "لالَوْمَ" in this Hadith refers to blame, reproach, or criticism. It signifies the negative judgment or condemnation that one may face due to their actions or decisions. The word (haarib) "هارِب" means to flee or escape, while (hatfihi) "حَتْفِهِ" refers to death or the approach of death.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:30),

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse highlights the importance of taking precautionary measures to protect oneself from harm or danger. It acknowledges that individuals may face threats to their lives, and it is not wrong to take steps to preserve one's life and well-being. The Quran encourages believers to be wise and cautious in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being prepared and taking necessary precautions in life. It encourages believers to make provisions and take measures to ensure their safety and well-being. However, it also reminds us that the best provision is Taqwa, which is the consciousness and fear of Allah, as it is through His guidance and protection that true safety can be attained.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) as an encouragement to prioritize self-preservation and taking necessary precautions in the face of imminent danger or death. It does not promote cowardice or running away from responsibilities, but rather highlights the importance of valuing one's life and well-being.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his statement serves as a reminder that it is permissible to take measures to protect oneself from harm. This Hadith does not contradict the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the value of life and the obligation to preserve it.

However, it is important to note that this Hadith should not be taken as a justification for abandoning one's duties or responsibilities. Islam encourages believers to face challenges with courage and resilience, seeking guidance from Allah and relying on His support.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

There is no blame on the one who flees from his death

reminds us of the importance of self-preservation and taking necessary precautions in the face of imminent danger. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the value of life and the obligation to protect oneself. However, it should be understood within the broader context of Islam, which encourages believers to face challenges with courage and seek guidance from Allah. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us wisdom and understanding in interpreting His teachings.