Hadith #3165

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of adopting certain virtues in different aspects of our lives. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith and explore its meanings in light of the Quran.

The first virtue mentioned in the Hadith is (الإخْلاصَ) "sincerity". Sincerity is the act of performing actions solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) without any hidden motives or seeking praise from others. The Quran beautifully emphasizes the significance of sincerity in various verses. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:3), Allah says,

Indeed, We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth so you may judge between the people by that which Allah has shown you. And do not be for the deceitful an advocate.

This verse highlights the importance of sincerity in judgment and decision-making, reminding us to always prioritize the truth and not be swayed by personal interests or biases.

The next virtue mentioned is (الخَشيَةَ) "fear of Allah". Fear of Allah is a fundamental aspect of our faith, as it serves as a deterrent from committing sins and motivates us to strive for righteousness. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the fear of Allah as a means of attaining His mercy and forgiveness. In Surah Al-Imran (3:102), Allah says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him].

This verse reminds us to maintain a constant awareness of Allah's presence in our lives and to fear His punishment, which ultimately leads to a righteous and obedient lifestyle.

The third virtue mentioned is (القَصْدَ) "moderation". Moderation refers to maintaining a balanced approach in all aspects of life, whether it be in matters of wealth, poverty, or any other circumstance. The Quran encourages moderation and warns against extremes in various contexts. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:143), Allah says,

And thus We have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you. And We did not make the qiblah which you used to face except that We might make evident who would follow the Messenger from who would turn back on his heels. And indeed, it is difficult except for those whom Allah has guided. And never would Allah have caused you to lose your faith. Indeed Allah is, to the people, Kind and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced and just community, where moderation is key to achieving unity and harmony.

The fourth virtue mentioned is (العَدْلَ) "equity". Equity refers to being fair and just in all circumstances, whether it be in times of satisfaction or anger. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in various aspects of life. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse reminds us to uphold justice even in the face of adversity and to not let personal biases or animosity sway our judgment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith provides us with a comprehensive guide on how to lead a righteous and balanced life. By adopting sincerity, fear of Allah, moderation, and equity, we can strive to attain the pleasure of Allah and establish a just and harmonious society.

Let us reflect upon these virtues and strive to implement them in our daily lives, seeking Allah's guidance and mercy. May Allah grant us the ability to embody these qualities and may He bless us with His mercy and forgiveness.