Hadith #3448

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns Muslims to stay away from treachery, as it is an act that distances one from the path of Islam. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (khiyānah) "خِيانَةَ" refers to treachery or betrayal. It is an act of deceit, disloyalty, or breach of trust. Treachery not only harms the person being betrayed but also undermines the very fabric of trust within society. It is a grave sin that goes against the principles of Islam, which emphasizes honesty, integrity, and fulfilling one's obligations.

The phrase (mujānabatu al-Islām) "مُجانَبَةُ الإسلامِ" means

turning away from Islam.

This phrase highlights the severe consequences of engaging in treachery. It implies that treachery is a betrayal of the fundamental teachings of Islam and leads to a deviation from the true path of faith. It distances one from the principles of justice, compassion, and honesty that Islam promotes.

To understand the gravity of treachery and its incompatibility with Islam, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188):

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of unjustly taking someone's wealth, which is a form of treachery. It warns against using bribery or corruption to gain personal benefits at the expense of others, as it is a betrayal of trust and an act of injustice.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:58), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

And if you fear treachery from a people, throw back [their treaty] to them, [putting you] on equal terms. Indeed, Allah does not like traitors.

This verse highlights the importance of honesty and trustworthiness in agreements and treaties. It advises Muslims to be cautious of treachery and to respond appropriately if they suspect betrayal. It also emphasizes that Allah dislikes those who engage in treacherous acts.

The consequences of treachery are not limited to this world but extend to the hereafter as well. In Surah Al-Imran (3:161), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns:

And [recall] when Allah took a covenant from those who were given the Scripture, [saying], 'You must make it clear to the people and not conceal it.' But they threw it away behind their backs and exchanged it for a small price. And wretched is that which they purchased.

This verse refers to the treachery of the people of the Scripture who concealed the truth and betrayed their covenant with Allah. It serves as a reminder that treachery leads to a wretched state in this life and the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to uphold the principles of honesty, trustworthiness, and loyalty. It cautions against the destructive consequences of treachery and its incompatibility with the teachings of Islam. Muslims are encouraged to be people of integrity, fulfilling their obligations and treating others with fairness and respect. By doing so, they strive to embody the noble qualities exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his Ahl al-Bayt, and his companions.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to stay away from treachery and enable us to live our lives in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May He grant us the strength to uphold honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness in all our dealings. Ameen.