Hadith #3237

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

The hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Good character is the best companion and self-conceit is a hidden ailment.

This wise utterance emphasizes the importance of cultivating good character and warns against the dangers of arrogance and self-conceit.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this hadith. "Husn al-khulq" refers to good character, which encompasses traits such as kindness, honesty, patience, humility, and compassion. It is the embodiment of virtuous qualities that bring about harmony and righteousness in one's interactions with others. "Khayr" means goodness or excellence, highlighting the superior nature of good character.

On the other hand, "qarin" refers to a companion or a close associate. Here, it signifies that good character serves as a constant companion, guiding and influencing our actions and interactions with others. It is a source of support and comfort in times of difficulty and a means of earning the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the significance of good character, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4),

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse praises the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) for his exemplary character, highlighting the importance of following his noble example.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 the true measure of superiority lies in righteousness and good character, not in wealth, lineage, or worldly status.

Now let us explore the second part of the hadith, which warns against self-conceit. "Al-'ujb" refers to arrogance or self-conceit, a state of being excessively pleased with oneself and considering oneself superior to others. It is a hidden ailment because it corrupts the heart and blinds one to their own faults and shortcomings.

To understand the dangers of self-conceit, we turn to the Quran once again. In Surah Al-Isra (17:37), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse reminds us of our limited capabilities and the futility of arrogance. It serves as a reminder to remain humble and grounded, recognizing that all blessings and accomplishments come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of self-conceit are detrimental both in this world and the Hereafter. Arrogance leads to the degradation of relationships, as it prevents one from acknowledging the worth and contributions of others. It hinders personal growth and impedes the path to self-improvement. Moreover, it distances one from the mercy and guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In contrast, cultivating good character brings about numerous benefits. It fosters strong bonds of love and respect among individuals, creating a harmonious society. Good character also attracts the mercy and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), as He says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77),

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

Reflecting on this hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of self-evaluation and self-improvement. We should strive to develop good character traits and continuously work on purifying our hearts from arrogance and self-conceit. By doing so, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate good character and protect us from the pitfalls of self-conceit. Ameen.