Hadith #8606

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the importance of self-awareness and staying within the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The key words in this Hadith are (to know) "عَرِفَ" and (his limits) "حَدَّهُ".

The word "عَرِفَ" comes from the root word "عَرَفَ" which means to know, recognize, or be aware of something. It implies having knowledge and understanding of one's own worth, abilities, and limitations. It is a call for Muslims to have self-awareness and not to underestimate or overestimate themselves. This self-awareness allows individuals to recognize their strengths, weaknesses, and the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we find numerous Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of self-awareness and not exceeding one's limits. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:23),

So that you may not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse reminds us that we should not despair over what we have not been given and not become arrogant or boastful over what we have been blessed with. It is a reminder to maintain humility and gratitude, recognizing that everything we have is from Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) blessings.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:37), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse serves as a reminder that no matter how much knowledge, power, or wealth one possesses, they should not walk upon the earth with arrogance and pride. It is a call to recognize our limitations as human beings and to remain humble before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us delve deeper into the exegesis of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the significance of self-awareness and the dangers of exceeding one's limits. When a person knows their true worth and capabilities, they can make informed decisions and avoid overstepping boundaries that may lead to arrogance, pride, and disobedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

By recognizing our limitations, we acknowledge that we are dependent on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for everything. This awareness fosters humility and gratitude, as we understand that any success or achievement is ultimately from Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) blessings. It also prevents us from becoming self-deluded and boastful, as mentioned in the aforementioned Quranic verse.

Moreover, knowing our limits helps us avoid overburdening ourselves with responsibilities or tasks that are beyond our capabilities. It allows us to set realistic goals and priorities, ensuring that we do not exhaust ourselves physically, mentally, or spiritually. By staying within our limits, we can maintain a balanced and harmonious life, fulfilling our obligations towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), ourselves, and others.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to have self-awareness and not to overstep their limits. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing our true worth, abilities, and limitations, as well as the dangers of arrogance and pride. By staying within our boundaries, we can maintain humility, gratitude, and a balanced life, pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fulfilling our responsibilities as His servants. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to understand and implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.