Hadith #2000

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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 تَوَلانا فَلْيَلْبَسْ لِلْمِحَنِ إهاباً۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

One who befriends us should have a thick skin for tribulations [that will befall him].

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran.

The word (tawalla) "تَوَلَّىٰ" in this Hadith means to befriend, support, or align oneself with the Ahl al-Bayt, the family of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the rightful successors to his leadership. It signifies a deep commitment and loyalty towards them.

The word (lil-mihan) "لِلْمِحَنِ" refers to tribulations, hardships, or trials that one may encounter in their journey of faith. It highlights the challenges and tests that a person may face as a result of their association with the Ahl al-Bayt.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises that those who choose to befriend the Ahl al-Bayt should be prepared to face these tribulations. This means that they should possess a strong and resilient character, capable of enduring hardships and remaining steadfast in their faith.

This guidance from Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds support in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155:

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse emphasizes that trials and tribulations are an inevitable part of life, and those who remain patient and steadfast will be rewarded.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 2, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?

This verse highlights that true believers will inevitably face tests and challenges in their faith, and it is through these trials that their sincerity and commitment are proven.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice serves as a reminder that true friendship with the Ahl al-Bayt requires a willingness to face difficulties and tribulations. It is not a path of ease and comfort, but rather one that demands sacrifice and perseverance.

By choosing to align ourselves with the Ahl al-Bayt, we are aligning ourselves with the principles of justice, compassion, and righteousness. This alignment may lead to opposition, criticism, and even persecution from those who oppose these principles.

However, the rewards of such a friendship are immense. The companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) faced countless trials and tribulations for their unwavering loyalty to him and his family. Yet, they emerged as shining examples of faith and resilience.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) words also serve as a motivation for us to reflect on our own commitment to the Ahl al-Bayt. Are we prepared to face the challenges that may come our way as a result of our association with them? Are we willing to endure hardships and remain steadfast in our faith?

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true friendship with the Ahl al-Bayt requires a thick skin for tribulations. It calls upon us to be prepared for the challenges that may arise as a result of our commitment to their teachings and principles. By remaining steadfast in the face of hardships, we can strive to emulate the unwavering faith of the Prophet's companions and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and resilience to face any trials that come our way and keep us steadfast on the path of truth.