Hadith #2575

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Spite is a fire that is not put out except by vanquish.

This powerful statement highlights the destructive nature of spite and its consequences. Spite, or "al-hiqd" in Arabic, refers to a feeling of intense resentment or ill-will towards someone. It is a fire that burns within a person, consuming their heart and soul.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "Nar" means fire, symbolizing the intensity and destructive nature of spite. It represents the burning anger and hatred that consumes a person from within. "La yutfa'u" means

is not put out,

emphasizing the persistence and endurance of spite. It cannot be easily extinguished or suppressed. "Illa bi al-thafar" means "except by vanquish," referring to the act of overcoming or defeating one's enemy. It implies that only through triumph over the source of spite can one find relief and peace.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the destructive nature of harboring ill feelings towards others in several verses. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:7), Allah says,

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the importance of unity and avoiding division among the believers. Spite and ill-will only serve to create discord and hinder the progress of the community.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of spite is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), where Allah says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse teaches us the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and backbiting, which are often fueled by spite. Such actions not only harm others but also tarnish our own souls.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can see the profound wisdom behind his words. Spite, with its burning flames, consumes the one who harbors it, leaving no room for peace or tranquility. It is a self-destructive emotion that blinds us to reason and compassion. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of overcoming spite through vanquish. This vanquish can take different forms, such as forgiveness, reconciliation, or simply letting go of grudges. By triumphing over our negative emotions, we free ourselves from the shackles of spite and open the doors to inner peace and harmony.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to avoid harboring spite and ill-will towards others. It emphasizes the destructive nature of such emotions and highlights the importance of overcoming them through vanquish. By seeking guidance from the Quran and reflecting on the consequences of spite, we can strive to cultivate a spirit of forgiveness, compassion, and unity within ourselves and our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to overcome spite and fill our hearts with love and mercy.