Hadith #4052

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ لادينَ لَهُ لانَجاةَ لَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who has no religion has no salvation.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of having a strong and steadfast faith in order to attain salvation in the hereafter.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith by exploring the key words and concepts within it. The word (la deen) "لادينَ" refers to someone who does not possess a religion or faith. It signifies a lack of belief in the existence of a higher power and a rejection of religious principles and teachings. The word (la najata) "لانَجاةَ" means "no salvation" or "no deliverance." It emphasizes the dire consequences of not having a religion or faith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 3:91)

Whoever disbelieves in Allah after his belief... then there is no salvation for them.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining faith in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the severe consequences of disbelief.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 3:19)

Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.

This verse highlights the significance of embracing Islam as the true religion and the path to salvation.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of holding onto their faith and practicing their religion diligently. It emphasizes that without a religion, one cannot attain salvation in the hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam. His statement in this Hadith reflects his wisdom and insight into the fundamental principles of faith. By highlighting the connection between religion and salvation, he reminds Muslims of the necessity of adhering to the teachings of Islam in order to secure their place in the hereafter.

The consequences of not having a religion are far-reaching. Without a belief in a higher power and a moral framework to guide one's actions, individuals may be prone to moral decay, selfishness, and a lack of purpose in life. Religion provides a sense of direction, purpose, and accountability, which are essential for personal growth and spiritual development.

Moreover, the absence of religion can lead to a lack of moral compass and ethical values. It is through religion that we learn about the importance of justice, compassion, honesty, and other virtues. These values not only benefit individuals but also contribute to the well-being and harmony of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims of the significance of having a religion and practicing it sincerely. It highlights the inseparable connection between religion and salvation, emphasizing that without a religion, one cannot attain deliverance in the hereafter. By reflecting on this Hadith and the supporting Quranic verses, Muslims are encouraged to strengthen their faith, deepen their understanding of their religion, and strive to live a righteous and purposeful life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the straight path and grant us salvation in the hereafter.