Hadith #8270

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises us to beware of being possessive in situations where it is not required. The Arabic word used in the Hadith is (at-taghayyur) "التَّغايُرَ", which can be translated as "being possessive" or "changing one's position". This word carries the connotation of clinging to something unnecessarily or excessively, even when it is not appropriate or beneficial.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that such possessiveness can have negative consequences. He states that it can lead the soul that is sound (صَّحِيحَةَ) to become sick (السَّقَمِ), and the one that is innocent or calm (البَريئَةَ) into suspicion or uneasiness (الرَّيْبِ).

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12),

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and suspicions about others. It warns against backbiting and spying, which are manifestations of possessiveness and changing one's position in a negative way. Such behavior not only harms relationships but also damages the soul, leading to sickness and uneasiness.

Another verse that sheds light on the wisdom of Imam Ali's advice is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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.

This verse teaches us the importance of refraining from ridiculing or belittling others. It reminds us that we should not judge or assume superiority over others based on external appearances or limited knowledge. Possessiveness in the form of arrogance or mockery can lead to division and animosity among people, causing harm to both individuals and communities.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice is a reminder to Muslims to cultivate a mindset of humility, trust, and respect towards others. By avoiding possessiveness and negative assumptions, we can maintain healthy relationships and contribute to a harmonious society. This Hadith encourages us to reflect on our own behavior and strive for self-improvement, seeking to purify our souls and maintain a state of tranquility and innocence.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to be cautious of possessiveness in situations where it is not required. By heeding this advice and following the teachings of the Quran, we can foster unity, understanding, and peace within ourselves and our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to implement these teachings in our lives.