Hadith #9743

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, "ثَمَرَةُ المِراءِ الشَّحْناءُ۔" This can be translated as,

The fruit of disputation is hatred.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom behind this statement and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (thamaratu) "ثَمَرَةُ" means "fruit" or "outcome," indicating the result or consequence of a particular action. In this context, it refers to the outcome of engaging in disputation or argumentation. The word (al-mira'i) "المِراءِ" means "disputation" or "contention," highlighting the act of engaging in heated debates or arguments. Finally, the word (ash-shahna') "الشَّحْناءُ" means "hatred," signifying the negative emotion that arises as a result of such disputes.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 46,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding disputes and arguments, as they can lead to a loss of strength and unity among Muslims.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 9, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes in a just and fair manner, rather than allowing them to escalate into hatred and animosity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the detrimental consequences of engaging in disputation. Disputes often arise from ego, arrogance, and a desire to prove oneself right at the expense of others. Such behavior not only leads to division and discord among Muslims but also breeds animosity and hatred. It hinders the progress of the community and weakens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that Islam seeks to foster.

The fruit of disputation, as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) eloquently states, is indeed hatred. When individuals engage in constant arguments and disputes, they become consumed by negative emotions, harboring ill feelings towards one another. This not only damages personal relationships but also creates a toxic environment within the community.

Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge, engage in meaningful discussions, and clarify misunderstandings through peaceful dialogue. However, it is crucial to approach such discussions with humility, respect, and a genuine desire to seek the truth. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 11,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to avoid engaging in unnecessary disputes and arguments. Instead, we should strive for unity, peace, and harmony within our community. By nurturing a culture of respect, understanding, and empathy, we can prevent the fruit of disputation from turning into the bitter taste of hatred. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).