Hadith #7890

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "نِعْمَ الخَليقَةُ الوَفاءُ۔" This can be translated as,

How good a characteristic loyalty is!

In this short but profound statement, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance and virtue of loyalty.

The word (khalīqah) "خَليقَة" in this Hadith refers to a characteristic or quality that is inherent to a person's nature. It is something that defines and distinguishes an individual. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing the significance of loyalty as a fundamental attribute that should be present in every Muslim's character.

Loyalty, or (al-wafā') "الوَفاء", is the act of remaining steadfast and committed to someone or something. It involves being faithful, trustworthy, and reliable in fulfilling one's obligations and maintaining strong bonds of allegiance and support. Loyalty is not limited to mere words or temporary actions; it is a deep-rooted quality that reflects a person's sincerity and integrity.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of loyalty and its positive impact on individuals and society. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse highlights the importance of fulfilling promises and being loyal to one's commitments. It emphasizes that true righteousness is not limited to outward rituals but is also reflected in one's actions towards others. By fulfilling promises and remaining loyal, Muslims demonstrate their faith and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His teachings.

Another verse that supports the concept of loyalty is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse encourages Muslims to remain steadfast and loyal to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His commands, even in the face of adversity or opposition. It reminds us that loyalty to Allah should always take precedence over personal biases or societal pressures. By upholding justice and fairness, Muslims demonstrate their loyalty to Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guidance and principles.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement regarding the goodness of loyalty serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate this noble characteristic in their lives. Loyalty brings about numerous benefits and blessings, both individually and collectively. It strengthens relationships, fosters trust, and promotes unity within families, communities, and the Ummah as a whole.

When individuals are loyal to their spouses, families, friends, and leaders, they create an environment of love, support, and stability. Loyalty also plays a crucial role in maintaining social harmony and fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among Muslims.

Furthermore, loyalty to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His religion motivates individuals to strive for righteousness and to fulfill their religious obligations sincerely. It encourages Muslims to remain steadfast in the face of challenges and temptations, knowing that their loyalty to Allah will be rewarded in this life and the Hereafter.

On the other hand, the absence of loyalty can have detrimental consequences. Lack of loyalty leads to broken promises, betrayal, and the erosion of trust. It weakens relationships and causes divisions within families, communities, and the Ummah. Moreover, disloyalty to Allah and His religion can lead to spiritual decline and distance from the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the significance of loyalty as a praiseworthy characteristic in Islam. Through loyalty, Muslims demonstrate their faith, sincerity, and commitment to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His teachings. Loyalty strengthens relationships, fosters unity, and promotes righteousness within individuals and society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody this noble characteristic and to be loyal to Him, His Messenger, the Ahl al-Bayt, and our fellow Muslims.