Hadith #5499

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims about the dangers of succumbing to our base desires and the consequences that follow. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (mudmin) "مُدْمِنُ" refers to someone who makes a habit or becomes addicted to something. In this context, it refers to an individual who continuously indulges in their lustful desires, without restraint or self-control. The term (ash-shahawat) "الشَّهَواتِ" encompasses all forms of carnal desires and passions that are contrary to the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that one who becomes a slave to their lustful desires will be (sari'u al-afat) "صَريعُ الآفاتِ", which can be translated as being overwhelmed by afflictions. This implies that indulging in our base desires leads to a multitude of negative consequences and hardships in our lives. It is a reminder that our actions have consequences and that we must be mindful of the choices we make.

To further emphasize the severity of this warning, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the one who follows their lustful desires is (muqarinu as-sayyiat) "مُقارِنُ السَّيِّئاتِ", meaning they are associated with evils. This association with evil is a result of deviating from the righteous path and engaging in actions that are displeasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a reminder that our choices shape our character and influence the company we keep.

Moreover, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the one who is engrossed in their lustful desires has (muqinun bil-thabat) "مُوقِنٌ بِالثَّباتِ", which can be understood as having certainty about the permanence of this world. This highlights the delusion that arises from prioritizing worldly desires over the eternal life of the hereafter. It reminds us that this world is temporary and fleeting, and that our ultimate focus should be on seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further reinforce the teachings of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77),

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.

This verse reminds us of the importance of balancing our worldly pursuits with our spiritual obligations. It cautions against becoming engrossed in worldly desires to the extent that we neglect our ultimate purpose, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:32), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of controlling our desires and abstaining from engaging in immoral acts. It emphasizes the negative consequences that arise from indulging in lustful desires and the harm it brings to individuals and society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to exercise self-control and to be mindful of the consequences of indulging in our base desires. It highlights the dangers of becoming addicted to our lustful desires and the negative impact it has on our lives. By reflecting on the teachings of this Hadith and seeking guidance from the Quran, we can strive to lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and avoid the pitfalls of following our base desires. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to overcome our desires and guide us on the straight path.