Hadith #2656

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "مُنازِعُ الحَقِّ مَخْصُومٌ۔" This can be translated as,

One who contends with the truth is defeated.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (munāziʿu) "مُنازِعُ" refers to someone who disputes or argues against the truth. It signifies a person who opposes the truth, challenges it, or tries to undermine it. On the other hand, the word (al-ḥaqqi) "الحَقِّ" refers to the truth, which is absolute and unchanging. It is the ultimate reality that aligns with the divine will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of adhering to the truth and the consequences of opposing it. In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah says, (Quran 3:105)

And do not be like those who became divided and differed after the clear proofs had come to them. And those will have a great punishment

This verse highlights the consequences of disputing the truth. Those who engage in arguments and divisions after the truth has been made clear to them will face severe punishment. This aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), which states that one who contends with the truth is ultimately defeated.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, Allah narrates the story of Musa (Moses) and Khidr. When Musa questions Khidr's actions, Khidr explains, (Quran 18:82)

And as for the wall, it belonged to two orphan boys in the city, and there was beneath it a treasure for them, and their father had been righteous. So your Lord intended that they reach maturity and extract their treasure, as a mercy from your Lord. And I did it not of my own accord. That is the interpretation of that about which you could not have patience

This verse demonstrates that sometimes the truth may not be immediately apparent to us, and we may be inclined to dispute or question it. However, Allah's wisdom is far greater than our limited understanding. In this story, Musa initially questions Khidr's actions, but later realizes that Khidr was acting upon divine guidance. This serves as a reminder that our understanding may be limited, and it is essential to trust in the truth even when it is not immediately clear to us.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of recognizing and accepting the truth. When we engage in arguments or disputes against the truth, we are ultimately defeated. This defeat can manifest in various ways, such as spiritual emptiness, intellectual confusion, or moral degradation. By embracing the truth and aligning ourselves with it, we attain spiritual growth, clarity of thought, and moral righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. His understanding of the truth was unparalleled, and he dedicated his life to upholding and defending it. As Muslims, we should strive to follow in his footsteps by seeking the truth, adhering to it, and avoiding disputes or arguments that go against it.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the consequences of disputing the truth. It urges us to embrace the truth and avoid engaging in arguments or disputes that oppose it. By aligning ourselves with the truth, we attain spiritual growth, intellectual clarity, and moral righteousness. May Allah guide us to the truth and grant us the wisdom to recognize and accept it.