Hadith #631

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, the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

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

إخْوانُ الدّين أبْقى مَوَدَّةً۔

which translates to

Brothers in faith have lasting affection [for each other].

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of the bond between believers and highlights the enduring nature of their love and care for one another.

Let us delve deeper into the key words of this Hadith. The word (ikhwan) "إخْوانُ" refers to brothers, indicating a close and familial relationship. However, it is important to note that this term is not limited to biological siblings, but rather encompasses the broader concept of brotherhood in faith. It signifies a bond that is based on shared beliefs, values, and the pursuit of righteousness.

The word (ad-deen) "الدّين" refers to religion, encompassing the entirety of one's faith and religious practices. It encompasses not only the external rituals but also the internal beliefs and values that guide a person's life. This word highlights the importance of the bond between believers, as it is rooted in their shared commitment to their faith and their dedication to living a righteous life.

The word (abqa) "أبْقى" means lasting or enduring. It emphasizes the long-lasting nature of the affection and love that exists between brothers in faith. This indicates that the bond between believers is not transient or temporary, but rather it is deep-rooted and continues to grow stronger over time.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10),

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the unity and brotherhood among believers, urging them to reconcile any differences and conflicts that may arise. It highlights the importance of maintaining a strong bond of affection and love within the Muslim community.

In Surah Al-Imran (3:103), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.

This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and solidarity among believers. It reminds us of the transformative power of faith, which brings together hearts that were once divided and creates a bond of brotherhood.

Reflecting on the exegesis of this Hadith, we understand that the bond between believers is not merely superficial or temporary. It is a deep-rooted affection that is based on shared beliefs, values, and the pursuit of righteousness. This bond is enduring and continues to grow stronger over time. It is a bond that is strengthened through acts of kindness, compassion, and support for one another.

As Muslims, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing and cherishing this bond of brotherhood. We should strive to embody the qualities of love, compassion, and support towards our fellow believers. By doing so, we not only strengthen our own faith but also contribute to the unity and well-being of the Muslim community as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to cultivate lasting affection and brotherhood within the Muslim ummah. May He guide us to uphold the teachings of Islam and to treat one another with love, respect, and compassion. And may He grant us the strength to overcome any divisions or conflicts that may arise, and to always strive for unity and solidarity among believers.