Hadith #10

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 hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to interact with people in a way that leaves a lasting impact on their hearts. The key phrase in this hadith is (مُخَالَطَةً) "mukhalatah", which can be translated as "interaction" or "companionship." Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is instructing us to engage with others in a manner that is sincere, genuine, and meaningful.

To understand the depth and significance of this teaching, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (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 the importance of knowing and understanding one another. It encourages us to build relationships based on righteousness and piety. When we truly get to know someone, we are able to connect with them on a deeper level and have a positive influence on their lives.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith further highlights the significance of our interactions with others. He advises us to leave such an impact on people's hearts that if we were to pass away, they would weep for us. This implies that our interactions should be characterized by kindness, compassion, and genuine care for others. When we treat people with respect and love, we create a bond that transcends mere acquaintanceship.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) also reminds us in Surah Al-Isra (17:53):

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing our words wisely and speaking in a manner that is pleasing to Allah. Our interactions should be characterized by kindness, honesty, and sincerity. When we speak in a manner that is pleasing to Allah, we create an atmosphere of love and unity, rather than discord and division.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith encourages us to not only leave a positive impact on people's hearts but also to be missed by them when we are alive. This implies that our presence should be cherished and valued by those around us. When we have meaningful interactions with others, they will long for our company and seek our advice and guidance.

In Surah Al-Imran (3:159), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

This verse highlights the importance of being gentle and kind in our interactions with others. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was known for his mercy and compassion towards people. His approach was one of kindness and understanding, which allowed him to win the hearts of his companions and bring them together. Similarly, when we interact with others in a gentle and compassionate manner, we create an environment of unity and harmony.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith reminds us of the importance of our interactions with others. We should strive to leave a lasting impact on people's hearts, so that they weep for us when we pass away and long for our presence when we are alive. By following the teachings of the Quran and the example of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we can cultivate meaningful relationships and contribute to a more loving and united Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our interactions and grant us the ability to leave a positive impact on the lives of others.