Hadith #6832

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

قارِبِ النّاسَ في أخْلاقِهِمْ تَأمَنْ غَوائِلَهُمْ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of developing good character and maintaining virtuous behavior when interacting with others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to get closer to people by adopting their good manners, which will protect us from their ill intentions and harmful actions.

To fully comprehend the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. (Qarib) "قارِبِ" means to draw near or get closer. (An-Nas) "النّاسَ" refers to people in general, encompassing all individuals. (Akhlaqihim) "أخْلاقِهِمْ" pertains to their morals, ethics, and character. (Ta'man) "تَأمَنْ" means to be safe or secure. (Ghawailahum) "غَوائِلَهُمْ" denotes their malice, evil intentions, or harmful actions.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of good character and moral conduct. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

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 highlights the significance of knowing and understanding one another, which can be achieved through developing good character. By getting closer to people in their morals, we can foster stronger relationships and build bridges of understanding and empathy. It is through these connections that we can truly appreciate the diversity and beauty of Allah's creation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse exemplifies the Prophet's (ﷺ) exceptional moral conduct, which serves as a role model for all Muslims. By emulating the Prophet's (ﷺ) character and getting closer to people in their morals, we can strive towards righteousness and create a positive impact on society.

The exegesis of this Hadith urges us to reflect on the importance of our interactions with others. When we approach people with kindness, compassion, and respect, we create an atmosphere of trust and harmony. By adopting their good manners, we can bridge gaps and overcome differences, fostering unity and cooperation within the Muslim community and beyond.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, advises us to be cautious of people's malice and evil intentions. However, he does not suggest isolating ourselves or becoming suspicious of others. Instead, he encourages us to engage with people and understand their perspectives, while safeguarding ourselves from any potential harm.

By getting closer to people in their morals, we can inspire positive change and influence others through our own exemplary conduct. Our actions and behavior have the power to motivate others to adopt virtuous qualities and abandon negative traits. This Hadith reminds us that our character is not only a reflection of our own selves but also impacts the broader society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of developing good character and engaging with others on a moral level. By emulating the positive qualities of those around us, we can create a sense of security and trust, while also inspiring others towards righteousness. Let us strive to embody the teachings of the Quran and the noble examples set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness.