Hadith #10656

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

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

كَفَى بِٱلْمَرْءِ مَنْقَصَةً أَنْ يُعَظِّمَ نَفْسَهُ

which translates to

It suffices as a deficiency for a man to consider himself as great.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of humility and the dangers of arrogance.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and concepts it contains. The word (manqasah) "مَنْقَصَةً" refers to a deficiency or a flaw. It signifies a lack or a shortcoming in one's character or actions. The word (yu'azzima) "يُعَظِّمَ" means to consider oneself as great or to exalt oneself. It implies an inflated sense of self-importance and superiority.

This Hadith reminds us that it is a deficiency for a person to think highly of themselves and to believe that they are superior to others. It serves as a warning against arrogance and pride, which are traits condemned in Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of humility in the Quran.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah says,

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. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse teaches us to avoid belittling or mocking others, as they may possess qualities or virtues that surpass our own. It reminds us that true greatness lies in the sight of Allah, who judges based on piety and righteousness, not worldly accomplishments or self-proclaimed superiority.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), where Allah says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse recounts the story of Qarun, who was blessed with immense wealth and power but allowed his arrogance to consume him. His people warned him against exulting in his riches, as Allah dislikes those who boast and consider themselves superior. Qarun's story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the consequences of arrogance and the importance of humility.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to cultivate humility and to recognize our own shortcomings. It teaches us that true greatness lies in humility and the acknowledgment of our dependence on Allah. When we consider ourselves as great, we become blinded to our flaws and are less likely to seek self-improvement.

By humbling ourselves and recognizing our weaknesses, we open the door to personal growth and spiritual development. We become more receptive to guidance and correction, allowing us to strive towards becoming better Muslims and better human beings. Humility also fosters unity and harmony within the Muslim community, as it eliminates feelings of superiority and promotes mutual respect and empathy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of humility and the dangers of arrogance. It serves as a reminder that considering oneself as great is a deficiency and a flaw in character. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that emphasize humility and warn against arrogance, we are encouraged to cultivate a humble mindset and strive for self-improvement. May Allah guide us all to embody the virtues of humility and protect us from the pitfalls of arrogance.