Hadith #1042

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) emphasizes the divine commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the distinction between good and evil. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Allah, the Glorified, has not commanded you to do anything but [that which is] good and has not forbidden you from anything but evil.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this enlightening Hadith of exploring the key words and their meanings. The word (amrakum) "أمركم" refers to the commandments of Allah, which encompass various aspects of life. The word (hasan) "حسن" signifies that which is good, virtuous, and praiseworthy. On the other hand, the word (nahakum) "نهاكم" refers to the prohibitions set by Allah, which are aimed at preventing evil and harm. The word (qabih) "قبيح" denotes that which is ugly, repugnant, and morally reprehensible.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for further guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the command to spend in the way of Allah, which is an act of goodness and righteousness. It also emphasizes the importance of avoiding self-destruction and engaging in actions that are beneficial and virtuous.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.

This verse clearly prohibits engaging in activities such as intoxication, gambling, and idolatrous practices, which are considered evil and detrimental to one's spiritual and moral well-being.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has only commanded that which is good and beneficial for us, and has forbidden that which is evil and harmful. It highlights the importance of adhering to the divine commandments and avoiding actions that lead to sin and transgression.

This Hadith also serves as a source of motivation for Muslims to strive towards goodness in all aspects of their lives. It encourages us to seek knowledge and understanding of what is considered good and evil according to the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can align our actions with the divine will and attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, this Hadith has profound consequences for our daily lives. It reminds us that our actions should always be guided by the principles of goodness and righteousness. It encourages us to reflect on our choices and decisions, ensuring that they align with the moral and ethical teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can cultivate a society that is built upon justice, compassion, and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to adhere to the divine commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights the distinction between good and evil, emphasizing that Allah has only commanded that which is good and has forbidden that which is evil. By understanding and implementing this enlightening message, we can strive towards righteousness and create a society that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to the path of goodness and protect us from evil.