Hadith #4344

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

قَطيعَةُ الرَّحِمِ مِنْ أقْبَحِ الشِّيَمِ۔

This translates to

Cutting off ties with near relatives is one of the ugliest practices.

The word (qati'ah) "قَطيعَةُ" refers to the act of severing or cutting off. It signifies the intentional breaking of familial ties and relationships. The term (ar-rahim) "الرَّحِمِ" refers to the bond of kinship, specifically referring to one's near relatives. It encompasses the ties of blood, such as parents, siblings, and extended family members. The word (aqbah) "أقْبَحِ" means ugliest or most repugnant, indicating the severity and abhorrence of this action.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of maintaining family ties and warns against severing them. In Surah An-Nisa (4:1), Allah says,

And fear Allah through whom you ask one another, and the wombs (kinship). Indeed Allah is ever, over you, an Observer.

This verse highlights the significance of maintaining the bonds of kinship and reminds Muslims to be conscious of Allah in their interactions with their relatives.

Furthermore, in Surah Muhammad (47:22-23), Allah states,

So, do you believe in part of the Scripture and disbelieve in part? Then what is the recompense for those who do that among you except disgrace in worldly life; and on the Day of Resurrection, they will be sent back to the severest of punishment. And Allah is not unaware of what you do.

These verses emphasize the importance of adhering to the entirety of Allah's teachings, including the commandments regarding family ties. Neglecting this duty can lead to disgrace in this life and severe punishment in the Hereafter.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims about the gravity of cutting off ties with their near relatives. It highlights the repugnance of such an action and warns against engaging in it. Severing family ties can have severe consequences on individuals, families, and society as a whole.

By cutting off ties with near relatives, individuals deprive themselves of the blessings and benefits that come with maintaining strong family bonds. These bonds provide emotional support, love, and a sense of belonging. They also serve as a means of preserving family heritage, traditions, and values. When these ties are severed, individuals may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation, and regret.

Moreover, cutting off family ties can lead to a breakdown in the fabric of society. Strong family relationships contribute to the cohesion and stability of communities. When these relationships are weakened or severed, it can lead to divisions, conflicts, and a sense of fragmentation within society. The breakdown of family ties also affects future generations, as it sets a negative example and perpetuates a cycle of estrangement and disconnection.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, emphasized the importance of maintaining family ties. His teachings and actions serve as a model for Muslims to follow. He demonstrated his commitment to family bonds by maintaining close relationships with his relatives, even in challenging circumstances. His example reminds us of the importance of nurturing and preserving these connections, regardless of the difficulties that may arise.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the repugnance of cutting off ties with near relatives. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to uphold the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) regarding family relationships. By maintaining strong family bonds, individuals can experience the blessings and benefits that come with it, while contributing to the harmony and stability of society. May Allah guide us all to fulfill our responsibilities towards our families and strengthen our bonds of kinship.