Hadith #2300

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, and his noble companions.

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

أفْضَلُ الكُنُوزِ حُرٌّ يُدَّخَرُ۔

This can be translated as,

The best treasure is a free man who has been reserved [in your friendship because of your kindness to him].

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word "kunuz" in Arabic refers to treasures or valuable possessions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that the most valuable treasure one can possess is not material wealth, but rather a free individual who has been cherished and preserved due to the kindness and generosity shown towards them.

This Hadith reminds us of the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, regardless of their social status or background. It highlights the significance of valuing human relationships and the impact our actions can have on others. By being compassionate and generous towards others, we have the ability to create lasting bonds and friendships that are more valuable than any material possession.

The Quran supports this concept of valuing human relationships and treating others with kindness. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the diversity among human beings. It teaches us that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety, not in social status or wealth. By valuing and understanding one another, we can build strong and meaningful relationships that transcend superficial differences.

Another verse that aligns with the teachings of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the importance of cooperation and mutual support in acts of righteousness and piety. It encourages us to work together to promote goodness and prevent evil. By extending kindness and preserving the dignity of others, we can create an environment of harmony and unity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith that the true treasure lies in the relationships we cultivate and the kindness we show towards others. By valuing and preserving the freedom and dignity of individuals, we can create a society that is based on justice, compassion, and mutual respect.

This Hadith serves as a motivation for us to reflect upon our own actions and interactions with others. Are we treating others with kindness and respect? Are we valuing the freedom and dignity of those around us? By embodying the teachings of this Hadith, we can strive to be the best versions of ourselves and build a society that is based on the principles of justice and compassion.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the most valuable treasure we can possess is not material wealth, but rather the relationships we build and the kindness we show towards others. By valuing and preserving the freedom and dignity of individuals, we can create a society that is based on justice, compassion, and mutual respect. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in embodying these teachings and grant us the ability to be kind and compassionate towards all.