Hadith #9308

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the essence of perfection by outlining three fundamental aspects. The first aspect mentioned is (صَبْرُ) "sabr", which translates to patience or perseverance. Sabr refers to the ability to remain steadfast and composed in the face of hardships, trials, and tribulations. It is a quality that enables a person to maintain their faith and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) during times of difficulty.

The importance of sabr is emphasized in the Quran in numerous verses. For example, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse reminds Muslims that tests and trials are inevitable in life, and it is through patience that one can navigate through them successfully.

The second aspect mentioned in the hadith is (التَّوَرُّعُ) "tawarru' ", which can be translated as piety or cautiousness. Tawarru' refers to being mindful and conscious of one's actions and intentions, especially in matters of religious obligations and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It entails refraining from engaging in any acts that may lead to sin or disobedience.

The Quran encourages believers to adopt a cautious approach in their pursuits. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:27), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Then We sent following their footsteps Our messengers and followed [them] with Jesus, the son of Mary, and gave him the Gospel. And We placed in the hearts of those who followed him compassion and mercy and monasticism, which they innovated; We did not prescribe it for them except [that they did so] seeking the approval of Allah. But they did not observe it with due observance. So We gave the ones who believed among them their reward, but many of them are defiantly disobedient.

This verse highlights the importance of sincerity and caution in religious practices, as it is the intention behind the action that truly matters.

The third aspect mentioned in the hadith is (إسْعافُ) "is'af", which means fulfilling the needs of the seeker. It refers to the act of providing assistance, support, and help to those who are in need, whether it be material, emotional, or spiritual. Is'af embodies the spirit of selflessness and compassion, as it involves going beyond one's own needs and desires to alleviate the suffering of others.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of helping others and fulfilling their needs. In Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and relying on Him for support, both in our personal lives and in our efforts to assist others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully encapsulates the essence of perfection in these three aspects. By practicing patience in the face of adversity, piety in our pursuits, and fulfilling the needs of those seeking help, we can strive towards achieving a state of perfection in our lives. These qualities are not only essential for personal growth and development but also for fostering a harmonious and compassionate society.

Let us reflect upon this profound hadith and strive to embody these qualities in our daily lives as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to practice sabr, the consciousness to pursue piety, and the compassion to fulfill the needs of others.