Hadith #4462

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 Muhammad, his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of hastening towards actions that please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and delaying acts of disobedience. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (hastens) "بادَرَ", (actions that please Allah) "مَراضِى اللّهِ", (delays) "تَأخَّرَ", and (acts of disobedience) "مَعاصيهِ".

The word "بادَرَ" signifies a sense of urgency and swiftness in performing actions. It implies being proactive and taking the initiative to engage in deeds that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This includes acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, giving charity, and seeking knowledge.

On the other hand, "تَأخَّرَ" refers to delaying or postponing acts of disobedience. It highlights the importance of self-restraint and self-discipline, resisting the temptations and desires that lead to sinful actions. It urges Muslims to exercise patience and control over their impulses, striving to avoid actions that are displeasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:148):

So hasten to [follow] the good things.

This verse encourages believers to hasten towards performing righteous deeds and acts of obedience. It emphasizes the importance of taking the initiative and not delaying in doing what is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:56), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

And cause not corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding acts of disobedience and corruption after seeking reformation. It emphasizes the need to invoke Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) with both fear and hope, recognizing that His mercy is near to those who do good.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for excellence in their obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encourages us to be proactive in performing good deeds and to be patient in avoiding sinful actions. By hastening towards actions that please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we demonstrate our love and devotion to Him, seeking His pleasure and closeness.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of self-discipline and self-control. It reminds us that delaying acts of disobedience requires patience and a strong will. By resisting the temptations and desires that lead to sin, we protect ourselves from the harmful consequences of disobedience and strive to maintain a pure and righteous character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to hasten towards actions that please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to delay acts of disobedience. It emphasizes the importance of being proactive in performing good deeds and exercising self-restraint in avoiding sinful actions. By adhering to this guidance, we strive to perfect our obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to implement this Hadith in our daily lives.