Hadith #10986

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "بِالتَّواضُعِ تَكُونُ الرِّفْعَةُ۔" This can be translated as,

It is through humility that one gets elevated.

This impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of humility in attaining true honor and elevation in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The word (tawāḍuʿ) "تَوَاضُع" in this Hadith refers to humility, modesty, and humbleness. It is the act of recognizing one's own limitations and weaknesses, and submitting oneself to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a quality that encompasses both the inward state of the heart and the outward behavior of an individual.

Humility is a recurring theme in the Quran, and Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) praises those who possess this noble trait. In Surah Al-Hajj, verse 34, Allah says,

And when the humble servants of the Most Merciful are present before Him, they say, 'Peace!'

This verse emphasizes that those who approach Allah with humility and reverence are granted peace and tranquility in His presence.

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

That is the recompense of those who are patient and do good, and rely upon their Lord.

This verse highlights the connection between patience, goodness, and humility. Those who remain patient in the face of challenges, perform good deeds, and rely on Allah with humility will be rewarded by Him.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that true elevation and honor come from within, through the cultivation of humility. When a person humbles themselves before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), they acknowledge their dependence on Him and recognize that all blessings and achievements are ultimately from Him.

Humility also plays a crucial role in our relationships with others. When we approach others with humility, we treat them with respect, kindness, and empathy. This fosters harmonious and compassionate interactions, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community.

Moreover, humility serves as a protection against arrogance and pride, which are traits condemned in Islam. Arrogance blinds a person to their own faults and prevents them from seeking guidance and improvement. On the other hand, humility allows one to acknowledge their shortcomings and seek forgiveness and guidance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for humility in all aspects of their lives. Whether it is in our worship, relationships, or dealings with others, humility should be the guiding principle. By embodying humility, we can attain true elevation and honor in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and also foster a more compassionate and harmonious society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate humility in our hearts and actions, and may He elevate us in this world and the hereafter.