Hadith #5946

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims regarding the importance of practicing what we preach and refraining from hypocrisy. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the grave error of commanding others to do something that we ourselves do not do, and forbidding them from something that we ourselves do not refrain from.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it presents. The word (ghawayah) "غَوايَةً" in Arabic refers to a grave error or a major mistake. It signifies a deviation from the right path and a departure from what is just and righteous. The word (ya'tamiru) "يَأْتَمِرُ" means to command or instruct, while (yanhahum) "يَنْهاهُمْ" means to forbid or prohibit. These words emphasize the act of guiding and directing others, whether it be through words or actions.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of practicing what we preach and being consistent in our actions. In Surah Al-Saff, Allah says, (Quran 61:2-3)

O you who have believed, why do you say what you do not do? Great is hatred in the sight of Allah that you say what you do not do

This verse highlights the displeasure of Allah towards those who claim to believe but fail to act in accordance with their beliefs.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah warns against the hypocrisy of commanding others to do what we ourselves do not do, saying, (Quran 3:61)

O you who have believed, why do you say what you do not do? Great is hatred in the sight of Allah that you say what you do not do

This verse serves as a reminder that our words and actions should align, and we should not impose upon others what we are not willing to adhere to ourselves.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith sheds light on the consequences of such hypocrisy. When a person commands others to do something that they themselves do not do, it undermines their credibility and weakens the impact of their words. People are less likely to take advice or guidance from someone who does not practice what they preach. This leads to a loss of trust and respect, and ultimately hinders the growth and development of the community.

Furthermore, when a person forbids others from something that they themselves do not refrain from, it creates a sense of injustice and hypocrisy. It fosters a double standard where certain individuals are exempt from the rules and regulations that they impose on others. This not only breeds resentment and division within the community but also undermines the principles of fairness and equality.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound insight in this Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to strive for consistency in their words and actions. It urges us to be mindful of the impact our behavior has on others and to lead by example. By practicing what we preach and refraining from hypocrisy, we can foster a community that is built on trust, respect, and genuine guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for all Muslims to align their words and actions, and to refrain from commanding others to do what they themselves do not do, and forbidding them from what they themselves do not refrain from. By adhering to this principle, we can establish a community that is guided by sincerity, consistency, and righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to practice what we preach and to be true examples of Islam.