Hadith #7985

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "المنية، ولاالدنية" which translates to

Death is preferable to abasement.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of maintaining one's dignity and honor, even in the face of adversity.

To understand the depth and significance of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used. The word (al-maniyyah) "المنية" refers to death, while (wala al-dunya) "وَلاَالدَّنِيَةُ" means abasement or humiliation. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that death is preferable to living a life of humiliation and degradation.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds support in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:154),

And do not say about those who are killed in the way of Allah, 'They are dead.' Rather, they are alive, but you perceive it not.

This verse reminds us that death in the path of Allah is not the end, but rather a transition to a higher state of existence. It is a means to attain eternal honor and dignity in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:169), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And never think of those who have been killed in the cause of Allah as dead. Rather, they are alive with their Lord, receiving provision.

This verse reinforces the idea that death in the cause of Allah is a noble sacrifice that leads to a higher spiritual existence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a reminder to Muslims that they should never compromise their principles or sacrifice their honor for worldly gains. In Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly life and the importance of striving for the eternal rewards of the hereafter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly desires, as death in the path of righteousness is far more honorable than a life of degradation and humiliation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a motivation for Muslims to stand up against injustice and oppression. It encourages them to resist any form of humiliation or degradation, even if it means facing the prospect of death. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of standing up for justice and truth.

In Surah An-Nisa (4:75), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And what is [the matter] with you that you fight not in the cause of Allah and [for] the oppressed among men, women, and children who say, 'Our Lord, take us out of this city of oppressive people and appoint for us from Yourself a protector and appoint for us from Yourself a helper?'

This verse encourages Muslims to fight against oppression and injustice, even if it means risking their lives. It highlights the importance of preserving one's honor and dignity, as well as protecting the rights of the oppressed.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Death is preferable to abasement

emphasizes the significance of maintaining one's honor and dignity, even in the face of adversity. It reminds Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly gains and to stand up against injustice and oppression. This teaching finds support in the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of striving for eternal rewards and standing up for justice. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to uphold our honor and dignity, and may He guide us to the path of righteousness.