Hadith #3501

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,

كَمْ مِنْ مُسْتَدرَج بِالإحْسانِ إلَيهِ۔

This can be translated as,

How many a person is gradually drawn to his destruction through the good that is done to him.

Let us delve into the meaning of some key words in this Hadith. The word (mustadraj) "مُسْتَدرَج" refers to a gradual process or progression. It implies that the destruction or negative consequences faced by an individual occur over time, rather than being immediate. The word (ihsan) "إحْسانِ" means acts of kindness, goodness, or benevolence. It encompasses any action done with sincerity and excellence, seeking to benefit others.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of having Taqwa, which is the consciousness of Allah's presence and the fear of displeasing Him. It reminds us that the ultimate provision for our journey in this world is not material possessions, but rather a righteous character and a strong connection with Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give Zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the importance of doing good to others, including our parents, relatives, orphans, and the needy. It emphasizes the significance of speaking kind words and fulfilling our obligations towards Allah and His creation.

Now, let us reflect on the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. The Hadith warns us about the potential dangers that can arise when we consistently do good to someone who may not appreciate or reciprocate it. It reminds us that sometimes, despite our best intentions, our acts of kindness can be misused or taken for granted. This gradual process of being drawn towards destruction can occur when the recipient of our good deeds becomes arrogant, ungrateful, or even hostile towards us.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. He understood the complexities of human nature and the potential pitfalls that can arise from unappreciated acts of kindness. This Hadith serves as a reminder for us to be cautious and discerning in our interactions with others. While it is important to do good and be kind, we should also be mindful of the intentions and attitudes of those we help.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the potential dangers of consistently doing good to someone who may not appreciate or reciprocate it. It serves as a reminder for us to be cautious and discerning in our interactions, while continuing to strive for excellence in our character and actions. May Allah guide us to always do good with sincerity and protect us from any harm that may arise from our acts of kindness.