Hadith #1658

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the root causes of extreme cowardice. The key words in this Hadith are (shiddatul jubn) "شِدَّةُ الجُبْنِ" which translates to "extreme cowardice." The word (jubn) "جُبْنِ" refers to a state of fear and timidity that paralyzes an individual, preventing them from taking action or standing up for what is right.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) explains that this extreme cowardice is a result of two factors: (ajz al-nafs) "عَجْزِ النَّفْسِ" which means

impuissance of the self

and (da'f al-yaqeen) "ضَعْفِ اليَقينِ" which means "weakness of conviction."

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and firm conviction in various verses.

One such verse is found in Surah Al-Imran, where Allah says, (Quran 3:139)

So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers.

This verse encourages believers to have confidence in themselves and their abilities, and to not let fear or doubt weaken their resolve.

Another verse in Surah Al-Hujurat states, (Quran 48:10)

Indeed, those who pledge allegiance to you, [O Muhammad] - they are actually pledging allegiance to Allah. The hand of Allah is over their hands. So he who breaks his word only breaks it to the detriment of himself. And he who fulfills that which he has promised Allah - He will give him a great reward.

This verse highlights the importance of keeping one's word and having strong conviction in fulfilling promises, even in the face of adversity.

From these verses, we can understand that (impuissance of the self) "عَجْزِ النَّفْسِ" refers to a lack of self-confidence and belief in one's own abilities. When individuals doubt themselves and their capabilities, they become paralyzed by fear and are unable to take action. This self-doubt stems from a lack of trust in Allah's guidance and support.

Similarly, (weakness of conviction) "ضَعْفِ اليَقينِ" refers to a lack of firm belief and trust in Allah's promises and guidance. When individuals have weak conviction, they are easily swayed by doubts and fears, and are unable to stand up for what is right. They lack the strength and courage to face challenges and overcome obstacles.

The consequences of extreme cowardice are significant. It hinders personal growth, prevents individuals from fulfilling their potential, and allows injustice to prevail. When people are too afraid to speak out against wrongdoings or take action to make positive changes, society suffers as a whole.

On the other hand, those who possess self-confidence and strong conviction are able to overcome their fears and stand up for justice and truth. They are not deterred by challenges and setbacks, but rather use them as opportunities for growth and improvement. Their actions inspire others and contribute to the betterment of society.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating self-confidence and firm conviction in our lives. We should strive to trust in Allah's guidance and promises, and believe in our own abilities to make a positive impact. By doing so, we can overcome our fears and contribute to a more just and compassionate society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and courage to overcome our fears and stand up for what is right. May He increase our self-confidence and firm conviction, and bless us with the ability to make positive changes in the world. And may peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.