Hadith #4038

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble family, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

فاقِدُ الدّينِ مُتَرَدّ فِي الكُفْرِ والضَّلالِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

The one who lacks religion falls into disbelief and misguidance.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the light of the Quran. The word (faqidu) "فاقِدُ" refers to someone who is devoid or lacking in something. In this context, it refers to an individual who lacks a firm foundation in their faith and religious beliefs. Such a person is vulnerable to falling into disbelief and misguidance.

The word (ad-deen) "الدّينِ" refers to religion or faith. It encompasses one's beliefs, actions, and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is the comprehensive way of life that guides a Muslim in all aspects of their existence. When someone lacks a strong connection to their religion, they are more susceptible to being led astray and falling into disbelief.

The phrase (mutarrad) "مُتَرَدّ" means to deviate or turn away from the right path. It signifies a state of being lost or misguided. When a person lacks a solid foundation in their faith, they are more likely to be swayed by false ideologies, doubts, and temptations. They may become easily influenced by the whispers of Shaytan and the distractions of the material world, leading them away from the truth.

The consequences of falling into disbelief and misguidance are severe. The Quran warns us in multiple verses about the dangers of straying from the straight path. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:257),

Allah is the ally of those who believe. He brings them out from darknesses into the light.

This verse emphasizes that true believers are guided by Allah towards the light of faith and righteousness. However, those who lack a firm foundation in their religion may find themselves trapped in the darkness of disbelief and misguidance.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of deviating from the right path is found in Surah Al-Hajj (22:8), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And of the people is he who disputes about Allah without knowledge and follows every rebellious devil.

This verse highlights the danger of engaging in debates and arguments about religious matters without proper knowledge. Such individuals are easily swayed by the whispers of Shaytan and become followers of falsehood.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to strengthen their faith and deepen their understanding of their religion. It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, understanding the teachings of the Quran, and following the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

By acquiring knowledge and nurturing a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), Muslims can safeguard themselves from falling into disbelief and misguidance. They will be able to discern truth from falsehood, resist the temptations of the world, and navigate through the challenges of life with clarity and conviction.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their faith and seek knowledge. It warns against the dangers of lacking a strong foundation in religion, which can lead to disbelief and misguidance. By understanding the teachings of the Quran and following the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), Muslims can protect themselves from the perils of straying from the right path. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all and keep us steadfast on the path of righteousness.