Hadith #2287

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

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

أحْسِنْ إلى مَنْ شِئْتَ وكُنْ (تَكُنْ) أمِيرَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Show kindness to whomever you wish and you will become his master.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (ahsin) "أحْسِنْ" means to do good, to be kind, and to excel in one's actions. It encompasses acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity towards others. The word (ila) "إلى" means "to" or "towards," indicating the direction in which this kindness should be directed. The word (man) "مَنْ" refers to "whomever" or "whoever," emphasizing the inclusivity of this command. The word (shi'ta) "شِئْتَ" means "you wish" or "you desire," highlighting the freedom of choice in deciding whom to show kindness to. Finally, the word (kun) "كُنْ" means "be" or "become," indicating the transformation that occurs when one shows kindness.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness and good treatment towards others. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83), Allah says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the obligation to do good to one's parents, relatives, orphans, and the needy. It also emphasizes the importance of speaking good words to people, which includes showing kindness and compassion. By doing so, one fulfills their duty towards their fellow human beings and earns the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), where Allah 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 highlights the importance of treating others with righteousness and justice, even if they do not share the same religious beliefs or do not pose a threat. It encourages Muslims to show kindness and fairness to all people, regardless of their differences. By doing so, one not only fulfills the command of Allah but also earns His love and favor.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. By showing kindness to others, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also elevate ourselves to a position of leadership and influence. When we treat others with kindness, we gain their respect, trust, and loyalty. People naturally gravitate towards those who show them kindness and compassion.

Moreover, when we consistently demonstrate kindness, we become masters of our own actions and emotions. We are no longer controlled by negative emotions such as anger, envy, or selfishness. Instead, we become masters of our own selves, capable of responding to situations with wisdom, patience, and empathy.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for us to embody the qualities of kindness and compassion in our interactions with others. It teaches us that true leadership is not about exerting power or dominance over others, but rather about inspiring and influencing them through acts of goodness and benevolence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Show kindness to whomever you wish and you will become his master

emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and compassion. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the value of good treatment towards others. By embodying this principle, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also elevate ourselves to positions of influence and leadership. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice kindness and compassion in our daily lives.