Hadith #6242

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family, his companions, and the righteous successors.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to exercise restraint and compassion in their interactions with others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, advises against stretching out one's hand to harm someone who is incapable of defending themselves.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (la tabasutan) "لا تبسطن" translates to

do not stretch out.

It signifies the act of extending one's hand or power towards another person. The word (yadak) "يدك" means "your hand," symbolizing one's ability to cause harm or exert control. The phrase (ala man la yaqdiru ala daf'iha anhu)

على من لا يقدر على دفعها عنه

translates to

against one who is unable to stave it off from himself.

This highlights the vulnerability of the person who is incapable of defending themselves against the harm being inflicted upon them.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice, mercy, and compassion in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse highlights the obligation upon Muslims to uphold justice, even if it means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It serves as a reminder that we should not misuse our power or authority to harm those who are unable to defend themselves.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting the dignity and honor of others, regardless of their social status or gender. It reminds us to refrain from ridiculing, insulting, or belittling others. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith aligns perfectly with this Quranic guidance, as it urges Muslims to refrain from stretching out their hand against those who are unable to defend themselves.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice carries profound implications for our personal and societal conduct. It encourages us to exercise empathy, compassion, and restraint in our interactions with others. It reminds us to consider the power dynamics at play and to use our abilities and influence responsibly.

By adhering to this teaching, we can foster a culture of justice, mercy, and kindness within our communities. We can create an environment where the vulnerable are protected, and their rights are upheld. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to emulate the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and to strive for a society that is built upon justice, compassion, and respect for all.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to follow the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May we always be mindful of our actions and strive to be a source of goodness and mercy in the world.