Hadith #9775

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Scheming is wickedness, deception is evil.

This enlightening Hadith emphasizes the negative nature of scheming and deception, highlighting their moral and ethical implications. To understand the depth of this hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used.

The Arabic word (مَكْرُ) "makr" refers to scheming or plotting with the intention to deceive or manipulate others. It involves planning and strategizing in order to achieve personal gain or harm others. On the other hand, (خَدِيعَةُ) "khadi'ah" means deception or trickery, which involves misleading or deluding someone through dishonest means.

To comprehend the significance of this hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the evils of scheming and deception in various verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Imran (3:54), Allah says,

And they schemed, and Allah schemed (against them): and Allah is the best of schemers.

This verse highlights the divine retribution that befalls those who engage in deceitful acts. It serves as a reminder that Allah's plans supersede any human schemes, and ultimately, justice prevails.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:142), Allah admonishes those who engage in deception by saying,

Surely the hypocrites strive to deceive Allah, and He shall requite their deceit to them.

This verse exposes the hypocrisy of those who pretend to be righteous while concealing their true intentions. It emphasizes that Allah is fully aware of their deceitful actions and will hold them accountable.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a moral compass for Muslims, reminding us of the importance of honesty and integrity in our interactions with others. Scheming and deception are not only condemned in Islam but also have severe consequences in this world and the hereafter.

Engaging in scheming and deception undermines trust, damages relationships, and leads to discord within society. It erodes the foundations of justice and fairness, creating an environment of suspicion and animosity. Moreover, it goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of truthfulness, transparency, and sincerity in all aspects of life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, warns Muslims against the pitfalls of scheming and deception. His statement serves as a reminder that these actions are not only morally wrong but also have detrimental effects on individuals and communities.

Reflecting on this hadith, we should strive to embody the qualities of honesty, trustworthiness, and sincerity in our daily lives. By doing so, we uphold the principles of Islam and contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt and protect us from the temptations of scheming and deception. May He grant us the strength to always choose righteousness over wickedness and evil.