Hadith #939

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لازينَةَ كالآدابِ۔" This can be translated as,

There is no adornment like good etiquette.

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in the light of the Quran.

The word (lazinah) "لازينَةَ" in this Hadith refers to adornment or beauty. It signifies something that enhances the appearance or attractiveness of a person. In the context of this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the importance of good etiquette as the most significant form of adornment.

The word (ka al-adab) "كالآدابِ" means "like good etiquette." Here, "adab" refers to manners, behavior, and conduct. It encompasses all aspects of one's interactions with others, including speech, actions, and gestures. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that good etiquette surpasses any other form of adornment or beauty.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the significance of good etiquette. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4),

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse was revealed in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), highlighting his exemplary manners and conduct. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for similar moral excellence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and refraining from mockery or derogatory behavior. It highlights the significance of good etiquette in our interactions with others.

The exegesis of this Hadith brings to light the profound wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He reminds us that true beauty lies not in physical appearance or material possessions, but in the way we conduct ourselves and treat others. Good etiquette is an adornment that transcends superficial beauty and leaves a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of people.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this principle throughout his life. His knowledge, wisdom, and impeccable manners earned him the title of (the Gate of Knowledge) "Bab al-'Ilm". He treated everyone with kindness, respect, and fairness, regardless of their social status or background. His etiquette was a reflection of his deep understanding of the teachings of Islam and his unwavering commitment to following the path of righteousness.

When we embody good etiquette, we become ambassadors of Islam, reflecting the beauty and grace of our faith. Our interactions become a means of inviting others towards the path of righteousness. Good etiquette fosters harmony, unity, and mutual respect within society, creating an environment that is conducive to the growth and well-being of individuals.

Conversely, the absence of good etiquette can lead to discord, animosity, and a breakdown of relationships. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11) against insulting one another and calling each other by offensive nicknames. Such behavior not only tarnishes our own character but also damages the fabric of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize good etiquette in all aspects of their lives. It teaches us that true adornment lies in the beauty of our character and the way we treat others. Let us strive to emulate the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and adorn ourselves with the most precious of all qualities - good etiquette. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the teachings of Islam and be a source of beauty and goodness in the world.