Hadith #10613

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 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,

كُلُّ مُعْتَمَد عَلى نَفْسِهِ مُلْقىً۔

This can be translated as,

Every person who relies on himself [instead of Allah] is thrown [into destruction].

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (mu'tamad) "مُعْتَمَد" refers to someone who places their trust and reliance on something or someone. In this context, it refers to a person who relies solely on themselves, their own abilities, and their own resources. The word (nafsihi) "نَفْسِهِ" means "himself" or "herself." And the word (mulqan) "مُلْقَىً" can be translated as "thrown" or "cast."

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of relying on Him and seeking His assistance in various verses. For example, in Surah Al-Anfal, Allah says, (Quran 8:28)

And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that our worldly possessions and abilities are merely a test from Allah, and true success lies in relying on Him.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah states, (Quran 17:110)

Say, 'Call upon Allah or call upon the Most Merciful. Whichever [name] you call - to Him belong the best names.'

This verse highlights the importance of turning to Allah in all matters and seeking His help. It emphasizes that relying on Allah is the key to attaining His mercy and blessings.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. It serves as a reminder that relying solely on ourselves and our own capabilities is a path towards destruction. When we place our trust in our own limited abilities, we are neglecting the infinite power and wisdom of Allah. This self-reliance leads to arrogance, pride, and a false sense of control over our lives.

When we rely on ourselves, we are bound to face disappointments and failures. Our own abilities are limited, and we are prone to making mistakes. However, when we place our trust in Allah and seek His guidance and assistance, we open ourselves up to His infinite mercy and blessings. Allah is the All-Knowing, the All-Wise, and He knows what is best for us in every situation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to always turn to Allah in times of need, to seek His guidance, and to rely on His infinite wisdom. It teaches us humility, patience, and trust in Allah's plan for us. By relying on Allah, we are protected from the pitfalls of self-reliance and are guided towards success and salvation.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to place their trust in Allah and seek His guidance in all aspects of life. It warns against the dangers of relying solely on ourselves and our own abilities. By turning to Allah and relying on Him, we open ourselves up to His mercy, blessings, and guidance. May Allah grant us the wisdom to always rely on Him and seek His assistance in all our affairs.