Hadith #43

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he beautifully describes the worth and qualities of a person. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring the meanings of the important words used by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and their connection to the Quran.

The first important word in this Hadith is (qadr) "قَدْرُ", which means worth or value. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the worth of a person is determined by their courage. This courage refers to the ability to face challenges and difficulties with bravery and determination. It is not merely physical courage, but also the strength to stand up for what is right and just, even in the face of adversity.

The Quran beautifully highlights the importance of courage in several verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:60),

And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being prepared and courageous in defending the truth and standing up against oppression.

The second word in this Hadith is (sidq) "صِدْقُ", which means truthfulness. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the truthfulness of a person is determined by their balance of temper. This refers to maintaining a balanced and moderate approach in speech and actions, avoiding extremes and exaggerations. It is about being truthful not only in words but also in character and behavior.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in Surah Al-A'raf (7:181), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And of those We created are a people who guide by truth and thereby do justice.

This verse highlights the connection between truthfulness and justice, indicating that a person's truthfulness is reflected in their ability to uphold justice and fairness.

The third word in this Hadith is (shaja'ah) "شَجَاعَةُ", which means valour or bravery. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that a person's valour is determined by their self-respect. This refers to having a sense of dignity and honor, which motivates a person to stand up for their principles and defend what is right. It is about having the courage to face challenges and confront injustice.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of bravery and standing up for justice. In Surah Al-Hajj (22:39), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them victory.

This verse highlights the importance of standing up against oppression and injustice, demonstrating the valor and bravery that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) speaks of.

The fourth word in this Hadith is (iffah) "عِفَّةُ", which means chasteness or modesty. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that a person's chasteness is determined by their sense of shame. This refers to having a sense of modesty and decency, which guides a person's behavior and interactions. It is about preserving one's honor and dignity by avoiding actions and behaviors that are inappropriate or immoral.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of modesty and chastity in Surah An-Nur (24:30), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do.

This verse highlights the importance of lowering one's gaze and protecting one's modesty, reflecting the sense of shame and chasteness that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) speaks of.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully highlights the qualities that determine the worth of a person. It emphasizes the importance of courage, truthfulness, valour, and chasteness. By reflecting on these qualities and striving to embody them, we can enhance our character and become better Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to cultivate these qualities in our lives.