Hadith #927

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, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of good manners and etiquette. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, teaches us that a person's noble lineage or high social status cannot compensate for their lack of proper behavior and manners. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (abased because of his poor etiquette) "دَنَاءَةُ أدَبِهِ" and (elevated by his noble lineage) "شَرَفُ حَسَبِهِ". The word "دَنَاءَةُ" refers to being humiliated or lowered in status, while "أدَبِهِ" refers to one's manners, conduct, and behavior. On the other hand, "شَرَفُ" denotes honor or nobility, and "حَسَبِهِ" refers to one's lineage or ancestry.

To understand the significance of good manners and etiquette, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good character in several verses. In Surah Al-Qalam, Allah says, (68:4)

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the exemplary character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who serves as a role model for all Muslims. It demonstrates that a person's moral conduct is a source of honor and elevation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (49:13)

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 that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety, not in one's lineage or social status. It reinforces the idea that good manners and character are the true markers of honor and distinction in the sight of Allah.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that a person's noble lineage or high social status does not guarantee their elevation in the eyes of Allah. If one lacks proper etiquette and displays poor behavior, they will be abased and humiliated, regardless of their lineage. This Hadith teaches us that true honor and elevation come from embodying the values of Islam and adhering to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

For example, if a person comes from a prestigious family but lacks respect for others, speaks ill of them, and displays arrogance, they will be despised and looked down upon by others. Their noble lineage will not save them from the consequences of their poor behavior. On the other hand, a person from a humble background who demonstrates kindness, humility, and respect for others will be esteemed and honored, regardless of their social status.

This Hadith also serves as a motivation for Muslims to strive for excellence in their manners and conduct. It reminds us that our actions and behavior have a direct impact on our reputation and how others perceive us. By embodying the teachings of Islam and practicing good manners, we can elevate ourselves in the eyes of Allah and gain the respect and admiration of others.

Moreover, this Hadith highlights the consequences of poor etiquette. When a person lacks proper manners, they create a negative atmosphere around them. Their behavior can lead to strained relationships, conflicts, and a loss of trust. It is essential for Muslims to cultivate good manners and etiquette in order to foster harmonious and respectful interactions with others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette. It teaches us that a person's noble lineage or high social status cannot compensate for their lack of proper behavior and conduct. True honor and elevation come from embodying the values of Islam and adhering to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Muslims should strive to cultivate good manners and etiquette in order to gain the respect and admiration of others, and most importantly, to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to embody the noble character of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble progeny.