Hadith #3489

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لايَنْجِعُ تَدبيرُ مَنْ لا يُطاعُ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of obedience and highlights the futility of planning and strategizing if one's authority is not recognized or followed.

To better understand the profound wisdom behind this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (tadbir) "تَدبيرُ" refers to planning, organizing, and strategizing. It implies the act of carefully considering different options and making decisions based on wisdom and foresight. The word (layanjia) "لايَنْجِعُ" means to be of no avail, to be useless, or to have no benefit. Finally, the word (yuta'a) "يُطاعُ" means to be obeyed or followed.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of obedience and following the rightful authority. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 59, Allah says,

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.

This verse clearly establishes the principle of obedience to both Allah and the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), as well as those in positions of authority.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, verse 32, Allah states,

Say, 'Obey Allah and the Messenger.' But if they turn away - then indeed, Allah does not like the disbelievers.

This verse highlights the significance of obedience to Allah and His Messenger, indicating that disobedience leads to displeasure from Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The Imam is reminding us that planning and strategizing can only yield positive results if they are carried out under the guidance and authority of someone who is worthy of obedience. Without recognizing and following the rightful authority, any planning or organizing becomes futile and ineffective.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, making him an authority whose guidance was essential for the success of any endeavor. His words in this Hadith serve as a reminder that true success lies in recognizing and submitting to the rightful authority, whether it be in matters of religion, governance, or any other aspect of life.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of unity and cohesion within the Muslim community. When individuals disregard the authority and guidance of their leaders, chaos and disarray can ensue. By emphasizing the necessity of obedience, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to work together, follow the rightful leaders, and collectively strive for the betterment of the ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the significance of obedience and the futility of planning without recognizing and following the rightful authority. It calls upon Muslims to seek guidance from those who possess knowledge and wisdom, and to work together in unity and harmony. By doing so, we can ensure that our efforts are fruitful and beneficial, both in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to recognize and obey the rightful authority and bless us with success in all our endeavors.