Hadith #1839

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) states,

The purification of the body is [in] striving and fasting.

This wise utterance emphasizes the importance of both physical and spiritual purification for a Muslim.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (zakat) "زَكَاةُ" refers to purification or cleansing. It is derived from the root word (zaka) "زَكَى", which means to purify or make something pure. In Islamic terminology, (zakat) "زَكَاةُ" specifically refers to the obligatory charity given by Muslims to purify their wealth.

The word (al-badan) "البَدَنِ" translates to "the body." It encompasses the physical aspect of a person, including their physical health and well-being. It is important to note that in Islam, the body is seen as a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and should be taken care of.

The term (al-jihad) "الجِهَادُ" is often associated with the concept of warfare, but it has a broader meaning in Islam. Jihad refers to striving or exerting effort in the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses various forms, including the struggle against one's own desires, the pursuit of knowledge, and the defense of Islam when necessary.

Furthermore, the word (as-siyam) "الصِّيَامُ" translates to fasting. Fasting is an act of worship prescribed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) during the month of Ramadan. It involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. Fasting is not only a means of physical purification but also a way to attain spiritual growth and self-discipline.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 183:

O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.

This verse highlights the purpose of fasting, which is to attain righteousness and spiritual purification.

In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 72, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, those who have believed and emigrated and fought with their wealth and lives in the cause of Allah and those who gave shelter and aided - they are allies of one another.

This verse emphasizes the concept of striving in the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), which includes both physical and financial efforts.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the purification of the body is not limited to physical cleanliness alone. It encompasses striving in the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fasting as acts of worship. By engaging in jihad and fasting, Muslims purify their bodies physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Striving in the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) can take various forms, such as seeking knowledge, spreading goodness, standing up against injustice, and defending the truth. It requires dedication, perseverance, and sacrifice. Through jihad, Muslims purify their intentions, aligning them with the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Fasting, on the other hand, purifies the body by teaching self-control, patience, and empathy. It allows Muslims to experience hunger and thirst, reminding them of the blessings they often take for granted. Fasting also encourages reflection, self-discipline, and gratitude, leading to spiritual growth and a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of both physical and spiritual purification. Striving in the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fasting are means through which Muslims can purify their bodies and attain spiritual growth. By engaging in jihad and observing fasting, Muslims strive to become better individuals, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and ultimately attaining success in this life and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of purification and grant us the strength to strive in His cause.