Hadith #9741

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,

Disputation is the seed of evil.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of engaging in arguments and disputes. To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word (mirā') "مِرَاء" refers to disputation or argumentation. It encompasses any form of verbal disagreement or debate that arises from conflicting opinions or viewpoints. Disputation can occur in various contexts, such as personal relationships, religious discussions, or societal matters.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes disputation as the (badru ash-sharr) "بَذْرُ الشَّرِّ", which translates to

the seed of evil.

Here, the term (badr) "بَذْرُ" signifies the origin or source, while (sharr) "شَّرِّ" denotes evil or harm. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that disputation is the root cause of various forms of evil and harm.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the negative consequences of engaging in disputes and arguments in several verses.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 highlights the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes in a just and peaceful manner. It encourages Muslims to seek reconciliation and avoid engaging in harmful arguments that can lead to oppression and further discord.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse reminds us that engaging in disputes weakens our resolve and diminishes our strength. It encourages us to focus on obedience to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) rather than wasting our energy in futile arguments.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Quranic verses, we can understand the profound wisdom behind avoiding disputation. Engaging in arguments often leads to negative consequences, such as strained relationships, division within the community, and a loss of focus on more important matters.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us to prioritize unity, peace, and justice over engaging in fruitless disputes. By doing so, we can foster a harmonious environment within our communities and work towards the betterment of society as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the wisdom to avoid disputation, thereby promoting peace and unity among Muslims.