Hadith #10601

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the importance of self-discipline and self-awareness. The key words in this Hadith are (muheiminan) "مُهَيْمِناً", (muraqiban) "مُراقِباً", and (hafithan) "حافِظاً".

The word (muheiminan) "مُهَيْمِناً" comes from the root word "هَيْمَنَ" which means to protect or guard. It implies that a person should be vigilant and conscientious in safeguarding their own soul. This entails being mindful of one's actions, intentions, and thoughts, and striving to align them with the teachings of Islam.

The term (muraqiban) "مُراقِباً" is derived from the root word "رَقِبَ" which means to watch over or observe. It signifies the need for a person to constantly monitor and evaluate the state of their heart. This involves being aware of one's emotions, desires, and intentions, and ensuring that they are in accordance with the principles of righteousness and piety.

Furthermore, the word (hafithan) "حافِظاً" is derived from the root word "حَفَظَ" which means to protect or preserve. It emphasizes the importance of guarding one's tongue, ensuring that it is used wisely and responsibly. This includes refraining from engaging in gossip, backbiting, slander, and any form of harmful or hurtful speech.

To further understand the significance of Imam Ali's advice, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the importance of guarding one's tongue and refraining from insulting or belittling others. It reminds us that every individual has inherent worth and that we should treat others with respect and dignity. By controlling our speech and refraining from offensive language, we can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Isra (17:36), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our thoughts and intentions. It reminds us to seek knowledge and understanding before forming opinions or making judgments. By being vigilant in guarding our hearts, we can ensure that our actions are based on wisdom and righteousness.

Imam Ali's advice serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate and improve themselves. By guarding our souls, watching over our hearts, and protecting our tongues, we can cultivate a strong sense of self-discipline and self-awareness. This will enable us to lead a life that is in accordance with the teachings of Islam and bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It will also contribute to the betterment of our relationships with others and the society at large.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to implement the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives and may He guide us on the path of righteousness.