Hadiths Of Fool_9292,cure _8207,Jesus_9150

Hadith of Jesus (ʿĪsā) via Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (a).

Hadith: "I cured the sick, healed the blind and the leper, and raised the dead by the permission of Allah. But I treated the fool and was unable to reform him."

When asked who the fool is, he said: "The one infatuated with his own opinion and himself—who sees every virtue as his own, claims all rights, and accepts no duty. For him, there is no remedy."

Main takeaway:

The worst illness is spiritual: Self-worship and arrogance. Even the greatest outward miracles cannot reform a heart that refuses humility.

Key points:

1. Divine Permission: The Lesson in Humility

Repeating "by the permission of Allah" clarifies that miracles affirm reliance on God, not personal greatness. This demonstrates humility, even for prophets.

2. The true "incurable" is the self. Jesus could heal bodies and restore life, yet he could not cure a heart captive to pride. This demonstrates how deeply dangerous and resistant to remedy, ego disease is.

3. Who is the "fool" (al-ahmaq)? Three traits:

Infatuated with his own opinion: Closed to correction and guidance (arrogance/ujb).

Claims every virtue for himself. Takes credit for every good thing while being blind to his faults and the grace of God and others.

- Demands rights and rejects duties: Feels entitled while shirking responsibility.

4. Why this condition is "incurable":

* No self-awareness: He doesn't recognize his sickness, so he won't seek help.

He rejects guidance because pride blocks him from receiving counsel, teaching, or revelation.

No will to change: Contentment in self-delusion removes motivation for reform.

5. Practical Lessons for the Believer:

The primary struggle is against the ego (nafs).

Cultivate humility (tawāḍuʿ) by acknowledging dependence on God and accepting correction.

Balance rights with duties. Claim what is your right, whereas you fulfill obligations to others.

Conclusion:

This narration warns that spiritual blindness, which is characterized by arrogance and self-worship, isolates a person from God, truth, and reform. The remedy is the opposite: humility, repentance, and an open mind to guidance.

The Ideal Companion

Narrated by Imam Sadiq (a) from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him and his progeny), this hadith conveys a crucial piece of advice from Jesus, son of Mary (PBUH), to his apostles. The Apostles' question, "Whose company are we to keep?" delves into a fundamental aspect of human life: the profound impact of our social circles on our spiritual and moral well-being. Jesus's response provides a timeless standard for identifying beneficial companionship.

1. The Context: Seeking Guidance in Association

The Apostles, dedicated disciples striving for spiritual purity, knew that their associations would inevitably influence their path. They sought companions who would actively aid them on their spiritual journey. This highlights the proactive nature of seeking beneficial relationships rather than passively accepting any association.

2. Jesus' Threefold Criteria for Ideal Companionship:

Jesus (peace be upon him) outlines three essential qualities, each of which addresses a different facet of human interaction and its spiritual impact.

"One whose sight makes you remember God" (مَن یُذَکِّرُکُمُ اللّه‏َ رُؤیَتُهُ): This refers to the visual impact of a person. Their presence should be a constant, gentle reminder of Allah. This doesn't mean that they must appear overtly pious, but rather, their demeanor, character, and very being reflect a deep connection with the divine. They might convey serenity, humility, or profound peace stemming from their relationship with God. In their presence, one is reminded of their own spiritual purpose, accountability to Allah, and the ultimate reality of existence. Their outward form serves as a catalyst for inner reflection and remembrance (dhikr).

"Whose speech adds to your knowledge": This criterion focuses on the power of their words. A beneficial companion is someone whose conversation enriches your understanding. This "knowledge" (ʿilm) is not merely secular or worldly information; it primarily refers to knowledge of the divine, religious wisdom, and insights that deepen one's faith and understanding of life's purpose. Their logic and reasoning (mantiq) should be sound, insightful, and constructive. It should help clarify doubts, dispel ignorance, and strengthen one's conviction in truth. Their conversation should elevate the mind and spirit, not distract or mislead.

"Whose conduct makes you yearn for the Hereafter" (و یُرَغِّبُکُم فی الآخِرَةِ عَمَلُهُ): This is perhaps the most potent criterion, focusing on the transformative power of example. A truly beneficial companion inspires a desire for the Hereafter through their actions (*'amal*). Their life is a testament to prioritizing eternal values over fleeting worldly pleasures. They demonstrate selflessness, sacrifice, patience, justice, and devotion to Allah through their deeds. Seeing their commitment to a life that pleases God and their detachment from excessive worldly pursuits naturally creates a desire within you for the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter. Their conduct serves as a living sermon, motivating you to follow their righteous example.

3. The Underlying Principle: Mutual Spiritual Advancement

Jesus's advice essentially emphasizes seeking out relationships that contribute to mutual spiritual growth. These are not just friends who entertain you or offer you superficial comfort. Rather, they are individuals who act as catalysts for your journey towards Allah. Such individuals are invaluable spiritual allies who help navigate life's challenges with faith and purpose.

4. Implication for Self-Reflection:

This hadith also serves as a powerful tool for self-reflection. We should ask ourselves:

Do I possess these qualities for others?

Does my presence remind others of God?

Does my speech contribute to their knowledge and understanding of faith?

Do my actions inspire them to strive for the Hereafter?

If we aspire to be beneficial companions, we must first cultivate these virtues within ourselves.

In conclusion:

The advice of Jesus (PBUH), as conveyed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny), provides a clear, actionable framework for choosing friends. It emphasizes that true friendship is a spiritual partnership where individuals uplift, enlighten, and inspire each other to live a life that pleases Allah and is rewarded in the Hereafter. The advice calls for discernment in our social circles, urging us to prioritize those who help us remember our Creator, deepen our understanding of faith, and strengthen our resolve to live for eternity.

The Double Standard of Judgement

 This profound statement addresses a common human failing: the inconsistent application of judgment, particularly towards others as opposed to oneself. The saying exposes the hypocrisy of those described as 'sinful servants of God' (عَبِيدَ اَلسَّوْءِ), who fall short in their obedience.

1. The target: 'God's sinful servants'

The phrase 'God's sinful servants' ('ubayd al-saw') points to individuals who, while perhaps outwardly identifying as believers or followers of divine teachings, exhibit flawed character and behaviour. They are servants of God in name only; their actions often deviate from Allah's will, leading them to sin.

2.The Inconsistent Judgment: Blaming Others for Suspicion

Jesus (PBUH) highlights a significant flaw: 'You blame people based on mere suspicion' (taloomoon al-nas 'ala al-ẓann).

'Taloomoon al-nas': This means to criticize, reproach, or blame others.

"Al-ẓann": This signifies 'based on suspicion' or 'on conjecture'.

It describes the tendency to be quick to judge others based on flimsy evidence, hearsay, assumptions, or mere perceptions without concrete proof. Such judgments are often harsh, swift, and unforgiving. People are condemned based on what is thought or suspected about them, rather than on confirmed facts. This reflects a lack of empathy and a readiness to find fault in others.

3.The Hypocrisy: Not Blaming Oneself for Certainty

A stark contrast is then presented: 'While you don't blame yourselves, even when you are certain of your own faults' (wa la taloomoon anfusakum 'ala al-yaqeen). You blame people based on mere suspicion,('Wa la taloomoon anfusakum': This means 'and you do not blame yourselveswhile you don't blame yourselves even while certain of your own faults.

"Al-yaqeen": This signifies 'even when it is certain' or 'when it is certain'.

This is the essence of the hypocrisy. These same individuals, who are so quick to condemn others based on mere suspicion, are remarkably lenient, or even entirely neglectful, when it comes to their own clear and undeniable faults. They are sure about their own shortcomings — their sins, character flaws, and failures to live up to divine standards — yet fail to hold themselves accountable. They do not acknowledge their mistakes, feel repentance, or take corrective action.

The underlying issues:

This saying highlights several deep-seated issues:

Self-deception: people often deceive themselves by seeing their own faults as minor or justifiable while exaggerating the perceived flaws of others.

Pride and arrogance: a sense of superiority leads one to believe that they are beyond reproach, while others are deserving of criticism.

Lack of self-awareness: a failure to examine one's conscience and acknowledge one's failings.

Spiritual weakness: The inability to apply the same standards of accountability to oneself as to others indicates spiritual immaturity and a lack of commitment to genuine self-reform.

The Call to Accountability and Justice:

Jesus' statement is a powerful call for self-accountability and fair, consistent judgment. It urges individuals to:

Turn the mirror inward: before judging others, critically examine oneself.

Apply standards consistently: Hold oneself to the same (or even higher) standards that one expects from others.

Acknowledge own faults: Be acutely aware of and remorseful for one's own sins and shortcomings.

Practice empathy: recognize that others, like you, are prone to error and approach them with compassion rather than quick judgment.

So, True righteousness lies in rigorous self-examination, accountability, and applying consistent moral standards to oneself before extending them to others. By abandoning this harmful double standard, individuals can embark on a genuine journey of self-improvement and strive towards the divine ideal.

This profound statement, attributed to the Prophet Jesus, encapsulates the essence of true knowledge and its transformative power. It emphasises the interconnectedness of knowledge, action and teaching. The hadith highlights that those who are knowledgeable, act according to their knowledge, and teach it to others are honoured in the highest realms of existence.

1. The Importance of Knowledge

Foundation of Action: The Hadith begins with the premise of knowledge. Knowledge is the basis upon which actions are built. Merely possessing knowledge is not enough; one must also understand its implications and responsibilities. In this context, knowledge refers to spiritual truths and practical wisdom that guide individuals towards righteous living.

2. Acting upon knowledge:

Integration of Theory and Practice: The second part of the hadith emphasises the importance of putting knowledge into practice. This integration of theory and practice is essential, as knowledge without action is inadequate and may result in arrogance or complacency.

The transformative power of action: When individuals put their knowledge into practice, they benefit themselves and contribute positively to their communities. Actions grounded in knowledge cultivate virtues such as compassion, justice and humility, reflecting the values that knowledge imparts.

Moral responsibility: Acting upon knowledge also entails moral responsibility. This involves living in accordance with the truths one has learned and embodying them in daily life. It is this commitment to putting knowledge into practice that distinguishes a learned person from a mere scholar.

3. Teaching knowledge:

Sharing wisdom: The final aspect of the hadith emphasises the importance of teaching others. Sharing knowledge amplifies its impact, allowing it to resonate within a broader community. Teaching is an act of service that fosters growth and enlightenment in others.

Legacy of Knowledge: By teaching, individuals contribute to a legacy of wisdom that transcends their lifetime. This ensures the preservation and propagation of knowledge, creating a ripple effect of understanding and moral development throughout society.

Divine Reward: According to the Hadith, those who teach are held in high regard in the heavens. This divine recognition highlights the importance of sharing knowledge as a means of achieving spiritual elevation.

Conclusion:

This Hadith from Jesus (peace be upon him) is a profound reminder that knowledge, action and teaching are all interconnected. It encourages individuals to seek knowledge, embody it through their actions, and share it with others. The promise of being honoured in the highest heavens emphasises the spiritual importance of these endeavours.

In a world often driven by material success and superficial achievements, this hadith encourages deeper reflection on how to live a meaningful and impactful life. By committing to the principles of knowledge, action and teaching, individuals can elevate themselves and contribute to a more enlightened and compassionate society, ultimately attaining a revered status in the divine realm.

Commentary on the Hadith:

Hadith:

'Jesus (PBUH) said: 'Let me reveal a truth to you: Just as a sick man can gaze upon delicious food but cannot enjoy it because of his pain, so the worldly man cannot enjoy the sweetness of worship because of his love for money.'

Introduction:

This profound saying by the Prophet Jesus(PBUH) uses a powerful metaphor to illustrate the spiritual consequences of being attached to worldly desires. It highlights how excessive indulgence in material pursuits can hinder one's ability to experience the true sweetness of worship and the sweetness of spiritual connection with Allah.

1. The Metaphor: A Sick Man and Delicious Food

The Prophet Jesus (PBUH) presents the relatable image of a sick man who, despite being presented with delicious food, cannot enjoy its taste because of his physical pain.

Physical pain as a barrier: Just as physical pain affects one's ability to enjoy food, spiritual 'sickness' caused by excessive attachment to worldly pleasures prevents a person from experiencing the joy and sweetness of worship.

The comparison between physical and spiritual states highlights the interconnectedness of the body and soul. When the soul is consumed by material desires and distractions, it is unable to access the deeper, more enduring satisfaction that comes from worshipping God and feeling spiritually connected to him.

2. The Worldly Man's Struggle

The Hadith draws a parallel between the sick man and the 'worldly man' (صاحب الدنيا), emphasising the consequences of excessive love for worldly possessions.

Attachment to the World: The 'worldly man' is someone whose heart is overly attached to material possessions, wealth and transient pleasures. This attachment creates a spiritual sickness, distracting the heart from recognising and enjoying the sweetness of worship.

Competing Priorities: The love of material wealth and worldly success often conflicts with spiritual pursuits. A worldly person may appear to worship, but their internal preoccupation with worldly matters prevents them from experiencing the joy and peace that comes with sincere devotion to God.

False Sweetness of the World: The Hadith suggests that the 'sweetness of worship' is a real, tangible experience, not just an abstract concept. However, pleasure derived from worldly possessions can cloud one's ability to perceive and enjoy this spiritual sweetness. The heart becomes so consumed by the fleeting pleasures of the world that it loses its sensitivity to the eternal, profound joy of worship.

3. The Sweetness of Worship

What is the sweetness of worship? The sweetness of worship refers to the deep sense of fulfilment, peace and joy that comes from connecting with God. It is a spiritual state experienced by those who engage in worship with sincerity, humility and devotion.

Purity of Heart: This Hadith highlights that the sweetness of worship cannot be experienced if the heart is weighed down by worldly attachments. Just as a sick body cannot enjoy food, a heart weighed down by greed, materialism, or excessive desires cannot fully appreciate spiritual practices.

Prioritisation: In order to experience the true beauty of worship, one must prioritise their relationship with God over worldly pursuits. This does not mean neglecting material needs, but rather keeping them in their proper place and ensuring they do not dominate the soul.

4. The Call to Spiritual Health

Healing the Heart: The Hadith implicitly calls for spiritual healing. Excessive love for worldly possessions causes a 'sickness' of the heart that must be treated if one is to experience the sweetness of worship. This healing process involves purging the heart of greed, materialism and distractions.

Detachment and balance: The Prophet Jesus (PBUH) emphasises the importance of detaching from the world to develop a stronger connection with the divine. This does not mean rejecting the world entirely, but rather approaching it with moderation and acknowledging its transient nature.

Cultivating a Taste for Worship: Just as a person regains their appetite after recovering from illness, someone who has purified their heart of worldly distractions can begin to experience the joy of worship. This requires effort, discipline and a sincere desire to prioritise spiritual growth over material gain.

Conclusion:

This saying of Jesus (PBUH) is a profound reminder of the importance of spiritual health and purity for experiencing the joy of worship. It highlights the incompatibility between excessive attachment to worldly pleasures and the ability to connect with the divine. Through the metaphor of a sick man unable to enjoy food, Jesus draws attention to the fact that when the heart is consumed by the love of material wealth, it becomes incapable of savouring the sweetness of worship.

The Hadith serves as a call to reflect on our own attachments and distractions, encouraging us to strive for a pure and focused heart. By prioritising spiritual connection and seeking a balance between worldly and divine pursuits, we open ourselves to the transformative power of worship and the enduring sweetness it brings. Ultimately, Jesus reminds us that true fulfilment lies not in the fleeting pleasures of the material world, but in the eternal joy of worshipping and being devoted to God.

This saying, attributed to Prophet Jesus, powerfully redefines worship by showing it is not limited to rituals, but also includes fulfilling worldly responsibilities. By emphasizing the brother's support, Jesus presents worship as a holistic commitment to both devotion and responsibility.

1. Worship Beyond Rituals

The Man’s Perspective: The man in the story embodies a common misconception that worship is limited to ritualistic acts such as prayer, fasting or retreating from worldly responsibilities. While such acts are vital aspects of devotion, they do not constitute the entirety of worship.

Jesus’s Perspective: The Prophet Jesus (AS) broadens the definition of worship to encompass serving others and taking responsibility. He points out that the man’s brother, who works to support him, is demonstrating a form of worship that is equally valuable, if not more so, than ritualistic devotion.

Balanced Worship: This Hadith teaches that true worship encompasses not only rituals, but also fulfilling one’s obligations to family, society, and oneself. Supporting others through lawful work and service reflects the values of compassion, responsibility, and selflessness, and is a form of worship. For example, caring for parents, volunteering in community services, or helping a neighbor in need are all specific acts that align with this broader interpretation of worship. These actions demonstrate devotion through the lens of responsibility and service, making worship a tangible and actionable practice.

2. The Role of Responsibility in Worship

The brother's act of providing for the man is an essential form of worship, as it demonstrates care for others and responsibility.

Worship Through Service: By working and supporting the man, the brother is facilitating his worship indirectly. This shows that acts of service and responsibility — whether through providing financial support, helping others or contributing to society — are themselves acts of devotion to God.

A Practical Approach to Worship:

The Prophet Jesus (AS) teaches that worship is not about isolating oneself from the world, but engaging with it responsibly. It is by fulfilling worldly duties with sincerity that one achieves spiritual elevation. Reflect on your own life: What are some duties you can fulfill with sincerity as worship? This question invites you to engage in deeper reflection and understanding of the balance between spiritual and worldly responsibilities.

3. Holistic View of Worship

The Hadith promotes a balanced view: worship combines ritual acts and practical responsibilities, showing spirituality involves both fulfilling duties and devotion.

Selflessness as Worship: 

The brother’s actions reflect selflessness, a key virtue in worship. By prioritising his sibling's needs over his own, he demonstrates a form of spiritual sacrifice that aligns with the essence of worship: putting others before oneself and striving to please God through service.

4. Lessons from Prophet Jesus’s (AS) Statement

The Value of Work: Prophet Jesus (AS) implicitly emphasises the dignity and value of lawful work. Supporting oneself and others through honest labour is a societal necessity and a spiritual act that reflects gratitude to God and care for creation.

Avoiding dependency: The Hadith subtly warns against becoming overly dependent on others. While communal support is important, it is also important to contribute and not burden others unnecessarily. Worship should involve responsibility and effort, rather than just relying on others.

Service as Superior Worship: Jesus (AS) prioritises the brother’s act of service over the man’s ritualistic worship, teaching us that serving others and fulfilling responsibilities are integral to worship, not secondary to prayer and devotion.

Conclusion:

This Hadith from the Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) offers a timeless lesson on the nature of worship and devotion. It teaches that true worship is not confined to ritualistic acts, but also involves fulfilling one's responsibilities, supporting oneself and others, and serving society with sincerity and selflessness.

By acknowledging the brother as the 'better worshipper', Jesus (AS) redefines the concept of worship to include practical actions that benefit others. This reminder encourages us to balance our spiritual practices with our worldly responsibilities, integrating compassion, work and service into our lives as acts of devotion to God. Ultimately, the hadith inspires us to view worship more holistically, recognising that both prayer and action are pathways to spiritual greatness.