Hadith #395

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 noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "اخْبُرْ تَقْلِهِ۔" which translates to

Try (a man) and you will hate him.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and provides valuable insight into human nature and the consequences of our actions.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words used. The word (Ikhbur) "اخْبُرْ" is derived from the root word (khabara) "خَبَرَ", which means to test or try someone. It refers to the act of putting someone through a trial or challenge to assess their true character. The word (taqlihi) "تَقْلِهِ" is derived from the root word (qala) "قَلَىٰ", which means to dislike or hate someone.

This Hadith reminds us of the reality that when we put someone through a trial or test, we often discover their true nature, which may lead to feelings of dislike or even hatred. It serves as a cautionary reminder to be mindful of our actions and the potential consequences they may have on our relationships with others.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the wisdom behind this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them.

This verse emphasizes the importance of refraining from passing judgment or ridiculing others, as we may not truly know their worth or potential.

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

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

This verse highlights the inevitability of trials and tests in our lives. It is through these challenges that our true character is revealed, and our faith is tested.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that when we subject someone to a trial or test, we may uncover aspects of their character that we may not have been aware of before. It is important to approach such situations with wisdom, empathy, and fairness, as our actions can have a profound impact on our relationships with others.

For example, if we test someone's patience by intentionally provoking them, we may witness their anger or frustration. However, this does not necessarily define their entire character. It is crucial to consider the circumstances and motivations behind their reactions. Similarly, if we test someone's loyalty by entrusting them with a responsibility, their actions during that trial will reveal their true commitment and dedication.

In light of this Hadith, we are reminded to be cautious in our interactions with others. Instead of hastily judging or hating someone based on a single trial, we should strive to understand their circumstances, intentions, and the broader context of their actions. This Hadith encourages us to adopt a more compassionate and forgiving approach towards others, recognizing that our own flaws and weaknesses may also be exposed when put through trials.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "اخْبُرْ تَقْلِهِ۔" teaches us the profound wisdom of testing someone and the potential consequences it may have on our perception of them. It reminds us to be mindful of our actions and to approach trials with empathy and fairness. By understanding the true meaning behind this Hadith and reflecting upon its message, we can strive to build stronger and more compassionate relationships with our fellow Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our interactions and grant us the wisdom to navigate the trials of life with patience and understanding.