Hadith #6693

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Quarrels [and disputes] manifest the foolishness of a person and do not increase in his right.

This Hadith highlights the negative consequences of engaging in arguments and disputes, emphasizing that such behavior only reveals the foolishness of an individual and does not lead to any increase in their rights or benefits.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it contains. The word "mukhasamah" refers to quarrels or disputes, which involve heated exchanges and conflicts between individuals. It is important to note that this Hadith does not condemn all forms of disagreement or discussion, but rather focuses on the negative aspects of quarrels that lead to hostility and animosity.

The word "tabdi" means to manifest or reveal, indicating that engaging in quarrels exposes the true nature and character of a person. It brings to light their lack of wisdom, patience, and self-control. By succumbing to the temptations of argumentation, individuals often lose sight of rationality and resort to emotional outbursts, insults, and irrational behavior. This behavior not only damages their own reputation but also undermines their credibility and ability to present their case effectively.

To further understand the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9),

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes in a just and fair manner. It encourages Muslims to seek reconciliation and avoid unnecessary quarrels. Engaging in arguments and disputes without a just cause not only goes against the teachings of Islam but also undermines the unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of engaging in quarrels is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:64), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And the Jews say, 'The hand of Allah is chained.' Chained are their hands, and cursed are they for what they say. Rather, both His hands are extended; He spends however He wills. And that which has been revealed to you from your Lord will surely increase many of them in transgression and disbelief. And We have cast among them animosity and hatred until the Day of Resurrection. Every time they kindled the fire of war [against you], Allah extinguished it. And they strive throughout the land [causing] corruption, and Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse highlights the consequences of engaging in disputes and spreading animosity. The Jews, due to their constant quarrels and disputes, were afflicted with animosity and hatred among themselves. This led to their downfall and the spread of corruption. Similarly, when Muslims engage in unnecessary quarrels, it not only damages their own reputation but also weakens the unity and strength of the Muslim ummah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the futility of quarrels and disputes. Instead of wasting our time and energy in arguments that do not increase our rights or bring any benefits, we should focus on maintaining peace, fostering unity, and seeking reconciliation. By doing so, we uphold the teachings of the Quran and the noble example set by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid engaging in unnecessary quarrels and disputes. It highlights the negative consequences of such behavior, which only reveals the foolishness of individuals and does not lead to any increase in their rights or benefits. By seeking reconciliation, maintaining peace, and upholding justice, we can foster unity and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood within the Muslim ummah. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of our Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).