Hadith #1

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

During civil disturbance be like an adolescent camel who has neither a back strong enough for riding nor udders for milking.

This profound analogy highlights the approach one should adopt during times of fitnah (civil disturbance) and turmoil.

The word "fitnah" refers to a trial or tribulation that tests the faith and patience of individuals. It can manifest in various forms, such as political unrest, social upheaval, or ideological conflicts. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to adopt the characteristics of an adolescent camel in such situations.

The term "kabn al-labun" refers to an adolescent camel, which is at a stage of development where it is neither fully mature nor fully capable. It lacks the strength to be ridden and the ability to produce milk. This description symbolizes the need for Muslims to remain neutral and refrain from taking sides during times of fitnah.

To support this guidance, we can turn to the Quran. In Surah Al-Mumtahina (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining justice and fairness towards all, even during times of conflict.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 seeking reconciliation and resolving conflicts through peaceful means.

Imam Ali's analogy of the adolescent camel teaches us that during times of fitnah, it is essential to remain impartial and avoid taking sides. By doing so, we prevent ourselves from becoming instruments of further division and strife. Instead, we should strive to promote justice, fairness, and reconciliation, as guided by the Quran.

This approach has profound consequences. By adopting the qualities of an adolescent camel, Muslims can contribute to the restoration of peace and harmony within society. They can act as mediators, seeking to resolve conflicts and bridge the gaps between opposing factions. This not only benefits the immediate situation but also helps in the long-term healing and unity of the Muslim community.

Moreover, Imam Ali's analogy reminds us of the importance of knowledge and wisdom in navigating through times of fitnah. Just as an adolescent camel lacks the strength and experience of a fully matured camel, we must recognize our limitations and seek guidance from those who possess knowledge and wisdom. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, making his advice in this Hadith even more significant.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us to adopt the qualities of an adolescent camel during times of fitnah. By remaining impartial, seeking justice, and promoting reconciliation, we can contribute to the restoration of peace and unity within society. This approach aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and fairness in all circumstances. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate through times of fitnah with patience and righteousness.