Hadith #5009

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 righteous companions.

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

لا يَسُودُ مَنْ لايَحْتَمِلُ إخْوانَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

He who does not support [and provide for] his brothers does not gain eminence.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this enlightening saying in light of the Quran.

The word (yasud) "يَسُودُ" in the Hadith refers to gaining eminence, prominence, or leadership. It implies attaining a position of authority and influence. On the other hand, (layahtamilu) "لايَحْتَمِلُ" means to bear, endure, or support. It signifies the act of shouldering the burdens and responsibilities of others, particularly one's brothers in faith.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of supporting and providing for our fellow Muslims. It highlights that true eminence and leadership are not achieved by solely focusing on one's own interests and ambitions, but rather by actively shouldering the burdens of our brothers and sisters in faith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the exemplary behavior of the Ansar (the residents of Al-Madinah) who supported and provided for the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Makkah). They loved their brothers in faith and preferred them over themselves, even though they themselves were in need. This selflessness and support for one another is a characteristic that leads to success and eminence in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the supplication of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and teaches us the importance of seeking Allah's support and sustenance. Just as we seek sustenance and support from Allah, we should also strive to provide support to our brothers and sisters in faith.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges us to actively support and provide for our fellow Muslims. This support can manifest in various forms, such as financial assistance, emotional support, or even lending a helping hand in times of need. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as believers but also contribute to the unity and strength of the Muslim community.

When we support our brothers and sisters, we create an environment of love, compassion, and solidarity. We build strong bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, fostering a sense of belonging and unity within the Ummah. This unity is crucial for the progress and success of the Muslim community, as it enables us to face challenges together and work towards the betterment of society.

Conversely, neglecting to support our fellow Muslims can have detrimental consequences. It can lead to division, animosity, and a weakened community. When we fail to shoulder the burdens of our brothers and sisters, we miss out on the opportunity to gain eminence and leadership in the eyes of Allah. We must remember that our success lies in our collective efforts and the support we provide to one another.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of supporting and providing for our brothers and sisters in faith. It teaches us that true eminence and leadership are attained through selflessness and actively shouldering the burdens of others. By following this guidance, we contribute to the unity and strength of the Muslim community, and ultimately seek the pleasure and reward of Allah. May Allah grant us the ability to support and uplift one another, and may He bless us with true eminence in this world and the Hereafter.