Hadith #6484

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "العُجْبُ حُمْقٌ۔" This can be translated as "Conceit is folly." In this enlightening saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental nature of arrogance and pride.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. "العُجْبُ" refers to conceit, arrogance, or pride. It is a state of considering oneself superior to others and looking down upon them. "حُمْقٌ" means folly or foolishness. It signifies the irrationality and senselessness that accompanies arrogance.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly warns against the dangers of arrogance and pride. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 37, Allah says,

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse reminds us of the futility of arrogance, as it cannot change our inherent limitations as human beings.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 83, Allah states,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse emphasizes that true success lies in humility and righteousness, rather than seeking superiority over others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the foolishness of arrogance. When one becomes consumed by pride, they lose sight of their own flaws and weaknesses. They become blind to the reality of their own limitations and the need for self-improvement. This arrogance can lead to detrimental consequences, both in this world and in the Hereafter.

Arrogance breeds a sense of entitlement and superiority, which can lead to mistreatment of others and a disregard for their rights. It hinders personal growth and prevents individuals from seeking knowledge and guidance. Moreover, it creates divisions and conflicts within society, as people become more focused on asserting their superiority rather than fostering unity and cooperation.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, understood the destructive nature of arrogance. He recognized that true wisdom lies in humility and recognizing one's own limitations. By highlighting the folly of conceit, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of cultivating humility and self-awareness.

As Muslims, we should reflect upon this Hadith and strive to rid ourselves of arrogance and pride. We should constantly remind ourselves of our own imperfections and seek to improve ourselves through self-reflection and self-correction. By doing so, we can foster a sense of unity, compassion, and understanding within our communities, and ultimately, attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the dangers of arrogance and guide us on the path of humility and righteousness.