Hadith #9147

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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, "Al-Karamu ihtimalu al-jarirah." This can be translated as,

Nobleness is bearing the wrongdoings [of others].

Let us delve into the depths of this impactful saying and explore its significance in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word "karam" in Arabic refers to nobility, generosity, and magnanimity. It encompasses the qualities of forgiveness, patience, and tolerance. It is a virtue that elevates the character of an individual and reflects the highest form of moral excellence. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the importance of bearing the wrongdoings of others as a noble act.

The concept of bearing the wrongdoings of others is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:199),

Take to forgiveness and enjoin what is good and turn away from the ignorant.

This verse emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and forbearance, even in the face of ignorance and wrongdoing. It encourages Muslims to respond to negativity with positivity, to replace anger with patience, and to replace revenge with forgiveness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:55), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And when they hear ill speech, they turn away from it and say, 'For us are our deeds, and for you are your deeds. Peace will be upon you; we seek not the ignorant.'

This verse teaches us to respond to hurtful words or actions with grace and peace. It reminds us that our responsibility is to focus on our own actions and not to engage in a cycle of negativity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the virtue of bearing the wrongdoings of others. It encourages Muslims to rise above petty disputes, to let go of grudges, and to respond to wrongdoing with patience and forgiveness. By doing so, we not only display our nobility of character but also contribute to the betterment of society.

When we choose to bear the wrongdoings of others, we create an environment of harmony and unity. We break the cycle of revenge and animosity, and instead, foster an atmosphere of forgiveness and understanding. This act of nobility has the power to transform relationships, heal wounds, and bring about reconciliation.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified this virtue throughout his life. Despite facing numerous injustices and betrayals, he responded with patience and forgiveness. His forgiveness towards those who wronged him, such as the perpetrators of the Battle of Jamal, demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the teachings of Islam and his desire for the betterment of the Muslim community.

As Muslims, we are called upon to follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and embody the virtue of bearing the wrongdoings of others. This requires us to cultivate a mindset of forgiveness, to let go of grudges, and to respond to negativity with kindness and patience. By doing so, we not only elevate our own character but also contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that nobleness lies in bearing the wrongdoings of others. It emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, patience, and tolerance in our interactions with others. By following this noble path, we can contribute to the betterment of society and strive towards the ideals of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to embody this virtue in our lives.