Hadith #8292

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he describes wickedness as a "decrepit fortress" that offers no protection to its inhabitants nor to those who seek refuge in it. To fully understand the depth and significance of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

The word "fujur" in Arabic refers to wickedness, immorality, and evil deeds. It encompasses all actions that go against the teachings of Islam and lead one away from the path of righteousness. It includes acts such as lying, cheating, backbiting, and indulging in unlawful desires. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes this wickedness as a "decrepit fortress," indicating its weakness and vulnerability. Just as a crumbling fortress cannot provide protection, wickedness offers no defense against the consequences and harms that result from it.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes that this fortress of wickedness fails to protect even those who seek refuge in it. This highlights the deceptive nature of evil deeds. People may be lured into committing sinful acts, thinking that they will find solace or satisfaction in them. However, these actions only lead to further destruction and misery. The temporary pleasure derived from wickedness is fleeting and illusory, leaving one vulnerable and exposed to the consequences of their actions.

To further understand the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 81:

And [recall] when Allah took the covenant of the prophets, [saying], 'Whatever I give you of the Scripture and wisdom and then there comes to you a messenger confirming what is with you, you [must] believe in him and support him.' [ Allah ] said, 'Have you acknowledged and taken upon that My commitment?' They said, 'We have acknowledged it.' He said, 'Then bear witness, and I am with you among the witnesses.'

This verse highlights the importance of following the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The fortress of wickedness, with its false promises and allure, stands in stark contrast to the teachings of the Prophet and his purified progeny. It is through their guidance that we can find true protection and salvation.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 53, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

That is because Allah would not change a favor which He had bestowed upon a people until they change what is within themselves. And indeed, Allah is Hearing and Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and personal accountability. The fortress of wickedness can only be dismantled if individuals recognize their own shortcomings and actively seek to change themselves. It is through sincere repentance and striving towards righteousness that one can break free from the clutches of evil and find true protection in the mercy of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening saying serves as a reminder for all Muslims to be vigilant in avoiding wickedness and to seek refuge in the teachings of Islam. It serves as a motivation to constantly strive for self-improvement and to distance ourselves from any actions that lead us away from the path of righteousness. By doing so, we can find true protection and security in the mercy and guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to stay away from wickedness and to seek refuge in His divine teachings.