Hadith #1018

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

هَلَكَ مَنْ لَمْ يُحرِزْ أمْرَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who does not safeguard his affairs is destroyed.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom behind this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (yuhriz) "يُحرِزْ" in the Hadith refers to safeguarding or protecting one's affairs. It implies taking care of one's responsibilities, making wise decisions, and ensuring the well-being of oneself and others. Neglecting to do so can lead to destruction and ruin.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of safeguarding our affairs in numerous verses of the Quran. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (2:195)

And do not throw yourselves into destruction

This verse warns us against recklessness and urges us to be cautious in our actions and decisions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hashr, Allah states, (59:5)

And whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed - then it is those who are the wrongdoers

This verse highlights the importance of adhering to the divine guidance in all aspects of our lives. Neglecting to do so can lead to wrongdoing and ultimately, destruction.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be proactive in safeguarding their affairs. It encompasses various aspects of life, including personal, social, and spiritual matters. Neglecting any of these areas can have detrimental consequences.

For instance, neglecting one's personal affairs, such as health, education, and financial stability, can lead to physical and material hardships. Allah says in the Quran, (4:164-165)

And [We sent] messengers about whom We have related [their stories] to you before and messengers about whom We have not related to you. And Allah spoke to Moses with [direct] speech. [We sent] messengers as bringers of good tidings and warners so that mankind will have no argument against Allah after the messengers. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise

This verse highlights the importance of learning from the experiences of the past and taking proactive measures to safeguard our personal affairs.

Similarly, neglecting social responsibilities, such as caring for the needy, promoting justice, and maintaining harmonious relationships, can lead to societal unrest and discord. Allah says in the Quran, (16:90)

Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice and fulfilling our social obligations to prevent the destruction of society.

Moreover, neglecting one's spiritual affairs, such as neglecting prayers, abandoning the remembrance of Allah, and indulging in sinful acts, can lead to spiritual decay and distance from Allah. Allah says in the Quran, (2:43)

And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience]

This verse highlights the significance of safeguarding our spiritual affairs by establishing prayer and fulfilling our religious obligations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a wake-up call for Muslims to be mindful of their actions and decisions. It urges us to take responsibility for our affairs and make choices that align with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the destructive consequences of negligence and ensure a prosperous and fulfilling life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our affairs. It calls upon Muslims to be proactive in taking care of their personal, social, and spiritual responsibilities. By doing so, we can avoid destruction and strive towards a life of righteousness and success. May Allah guide us all to safeguard our affairs and grant us the wisdom to make choices that are pleasing to Him.