Hadith #10376

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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 constant self-reflection and self-improvement that a true believer engages in. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that a believer does not pass through the morning and evening without having doubts about his own soul. This implies that a believer is always aware of his own shortcomings, weaknesses, and potential for sin. Rather than being complacent, the believer continuously evaluates and criticizes his own actions and intentions.

The Arabic word (doubts) "ظَنُونٌ" used in the Hadith refers to the believer's constant state of questioning and suspicion towards his own self. It signifies a deep sense of self-awareness and a recognition of the potential for human fallibility. The believer does not blindly trust his own desires and inclinations, but rather approaches them with caution and skepticism.

This concept of self-doubt and self-criticism is rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and self-accountability. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:18), Allah says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse encourages believers to constantly assess their actions and intentions, and to be mindful of the consequences of their choices.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), Allah says,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse highlights the importance of verifying information and not hastily passing judgment. It teaches believers to be critical thinkers and to question their own assumptions and biases.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises believers to continuously belittle and find fault with their own souls. This does not mean that one should have low self-esteem or engage in self-deprecation. Rather, it emphasizes the need for humility and self-awareness. By recognizing our own flaws and weaknesses, we are able to strive for self-improvement and seek forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Qasas (28:56) supports this idea of self-criticism. Allah says,

Indeed, [O Muhammad], you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse reminds us that true guidance comes from Allah alone. By acknowledging our own limitations and seeking Allah's guidance, we humble ourselves and recognize our dependence on Him.

The Hadith also mentions that the believer seeks more good for his soul. This implies that despite the doubts and self-criticism, the believer is motivated to improve and grow spiritually. This aspiration for self-improvement is in line with the Quranic teachings. In Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse reflects the believer's desire to continually strengthen his faith and seek Allah's support and guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, self-criticism, and self-improvement for a true believer. By constantly questioning our own actions and intentions, we are able to recognize our weaknesses and strive for spiritual growth. This concept aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which encourage believers to be mindful of their deeds, seek Allah's guidance, and continuously strive for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to constantly evaluate ourselves and seek His forgiveness and guidance.