Hadith #9237

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "المَكارِمُ بِالمَكارِهِ", which can be translated as,

Noble traits are [attained] by [bearing] that which is disliked.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of embracing and enduring hardships, difficulties, and challenges in order to attain noble qualities and virtues.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their implications. The word (al-makarim) "المَكارِمُ" refers to noble traits, virtues, or qualities that are praiseworthy and esteemed. These are the characteristics that elevate an individual's moral and spiritual standing. On the other hand, the word (bil-makarih) "بِالمَكارِهِ" refers to that which is disliked or unpleasant. It encompasses the hardships, trials, and tribulations that one may encounter in life.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is aware of our capabilities and does not burden us with difficulties that exceed our capacity to endure. Therefore, when we face challenges, it is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our strength and resilience.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tested?

This verse reminds us that trials and tribulations are an integral part of our journey as believers. They serve as tests of our faith, patience, and character. By enduring these tests with patience and perseverance, we have the opportunity to cultivate noble traits within ourselves.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes the transformative power of embracing and enduring that which is disliked. When we face difficulties, it is easy to become disheartened, resentful, or even give up. However, by embracing these challenges and enduring them with patience and faith, we have the opportunity to develop and strengthen our character.

For example, when faced with adversity, we may be tempted to respond with anger or resentment. However, by choosing to forgive and show kindness, we cultivate the noble trait of forbearance (الحلم). Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:199),

Take what is given freely, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant.

This verse encourages us to respond to negativity with goodness and to turn away from ignorance.

Similarly, when we are faced with injustice, we may be inclined to seek revenge or hold grudges. However, by choosing to seek justice through peaceful means and maintaining a forgiving heart, we develop the noble trait of justice (العدل). Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa (4:135),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that noble traits are attained by bearing that which is disliked. By embracing and enduring hardships, challenges, and difficulties with patience, faith, and perseverance, we have the opportunity to cultivate and strengthen our character. Through this process, we develop virtues such as forbearance and justice, which elevate our moral and spiritual standing. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to embrace and endure that which is disliked, and may He bless us with noble traits that bring us closer to Him.