Hadith #9773

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Al-makru wal-ghullu mujanibani al-iman.

This can be translated as,

Scheming and malice are things that keep faith away.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound statement in light of the Quran.

The word "makr" refers to scheming or plotting, while "ghull" signifies malice or ill-intent. These negative traits are described as "mujanibani al-iman," meaning they repel or push away faith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the detrimental effect that scheming and malice can have on one's faith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:30), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the consequences of plotting and scheming. He says,

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse emphasizes that while humans may scheme and plot, ultimately, it is Allah's plan that prevails. Those who engage in such negative actions are acting against the will of Allah and distancing themselves from faith. Their intentions are driven by selfish desires and personal gain, rather than seeking the pleasure of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:204), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us to avoid malice and ill-intent. He says,

But when it is said to them, 'Do not cause corruption on the earth,' they say, 'We are but reformers.' Unquestionably, it is they who are the corrupters, but they perceive [it] not.

This verse highlights the delusion of those who engage in malicious actions. They may justify their behavior as a means of reform or progress, but in reality, they are causing corruption and harm. Their lack of self-awareness blinds them to the negative consequences of their actions, leading them further away from faith.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of their intentions and actions. Scheming and malice not only harm others but also erode one's faith. When we engage in such negative behaviors, we distance ourselves from the teachings of Islam and the path of righteousness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see the profound impact that our intentions and actions have on our faith. It reminds us to strive for sincerity and purity of heart, seeking the pleasure of Allah in all that we do. By avoiding scheming and malice, we create an environment of love, compassion, and unity, which strengthens our faith and brings us closer to Allah.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the negative traits of scheming and malice, and grant us the strength to always act with sincerity and righteousness. May our faith be steadfast and unwavering, and may we be among those who are guided by the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).