Hadith #6822

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May 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,

حُسْنُ العِشْرَةِ يَسْتَديمُ المَوَدَّةَ۔

This can be translated as,

Good social interaction causes affection to endure.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (husn) "حُسْنُ" in this Hadith refers to goodness or excellence. It signifies the importance of maintaining a positive and virtuous demeanor in our interactions with others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the significance of good behavior in the Quran, stating in Surah Al-Hajj (22:78),

And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty. [It is] the religion of your father, Abraham. Allah named you

Muslims

before [in former scriptures] and in this [revelation] that the Messenger may be a witness over you and you may be witnesses over the people. So establish prayer and give zakah and hold fast to Allah. He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper.

The word (ishrah) "عِشْرَةِ" in the Hadith refers to social interaction or companionship. It encompasses our relationships with others, including family, friends, and the wider community. The Quran emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with others, as mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83),

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.

The phrase (yastadeem al-mawaddah) "يَسْتَديمُ المَوَدَّةَ" in the Hadith means that good social interaction leads to the endurance of affection. It highlights the importance of fostering love, kindness, and compassion in our relationships. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to cultivate love and mercy among ourselves, as stated in Surah Al-Rum (30:21),

And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who give thought.

When we embody the qualities of goodness and maintain positive social interactions, we create an environment where love and affection can flourish. By treating others with respect, empathy, and understanding, we build strong and lasting bonds. This not only benefits us individually but also contributes to the well-being of the entire community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of good social interaction. His words serve as a reminder that our actions and behavior have a direct impact on the quality and longevity of our relationships. When we consistently display kindness, patience, and forgiveness, we create an atmosphere of love and harmony.

Conversely, if we neglect our social interactions or engage in negative behavior, we risk damaging the bonds of affection. The Quran warns against severing ties with others and encourages reconciliation, as mentioned in Surah Al-Anfal (8:58),

And if you fear dissension between two factions from within yourselves, send an arbitrator from his people and an arbitrator from her people. If they both desire reconciliation, Allah will cause it between them. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Acquainted [with all things].

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of good social interaction in maintaining enduring affection. By embodying goodness in our interactions and treating others with kindness and respect, we create an environment where love and compassion can thrive. This not only strengthens our relationships but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in embodying these qualities and bless us with enduring affection in our relationships.