Hadith #5118

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

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

مَنْ دَفَعَ الشَّرَّ بِالخَيْرِ غَلَبَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who repels evil with good, triumphs.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (dafaa) "دَفَعَ" means to repel or ward off. It implies actively pushing away or preventing the occurrence of evil. (ash-sharr) "الشَّرَّ" refers to evil, harm, or wrongdoing. It encompasses all forms of negativity and harm that may be inflicted upon an individual or society. On the other hand, (al-khayr) "الخَيْرِ" denotes goodness, righteousness, and virtuous actions. It encompasses acts of kindness, compassion, and righteousness.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Fussilat (41:34),

Repel evil with that which is better. Then will he, between whom and thee was hatred, become as it were thy friend and intimate!

This verse beautifully echoes the essence of the Hadith, emphasizing the power of responding to evil with goodness. When faced with negativity, responding with kindness and righteousness has the potential to transform animosity into friendship and reconciliation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:96), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Repel evil with good, and if there is enmity between you and someone else, he will become as though he were a close friend.

This verse reinforces the idea that responding to evil with good not only has the potential to neutralize animosity but also has the power to foster deep bonds of friendship and understanding.

The exegesis of this Hadith highlights the importance of adopting a virtuous approach in dealing with evil. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, reminds us that responding to evil with good is not only a moral obligation but also a means of triumph. By choosing to repel evil with goodness, we are not only protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of negativity but also creating an opportunity for positive change and transformation.

When we respond to evil with good, we break the cycle of hatred and retaliation. Our actions have the potential to inspire others to follow the path of righteousness and promote harmony in society. By choosing to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving, we become agents of positive change, spreading goodness and light in the face of darkness.

The consequences of repelling evil with good are far-reaching. It not only benefits the individual who practices it but also has a ripple effect on the wider community. Our actions have the power to influence others and create a positive atmosphere of love, compassion, and understanding. By triumphing over evil through goodness, we contribute to the betterment of society and the establishment of peace.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the immense power of our choices and actions. In a world filled with negativity and evil, we have the ability to make a difference by responding with goodness. Let us strive to emulate the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and repel evil with good, knowing that through this virtuous path, we can triumph over darkness and bring about positive change in ourselves and the world around us.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to repel evil with good and be a source of light in this world. Ameen.