Hadith #7868

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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, "الوَفاءُ سَجِيَّةُ الكِرامِ" which translates to

Loyalty is the trait of the honourable.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of loyalty and its association with noble character.

The word (al-wafa) "الوَفاءُ" refers to loyalty, faithfulness, and fulfilling one's commitments. It encompasses the idea of remaining steadfast and true to one's word, even in the face of challenges or temptations. Loyalty is a fundamental virtue that is highly regarded in Islam, as it reflects the sincerity and trustworthiness of an individual.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes loyalty as (sajiyyatu al-kiram) "سَجِيَّةُ الكِرامِ", which can be translated as the trait of the honourable. This phrase emphasizes that loyalty is not just a desirable quality, but it is an essential characteristic of those who possess nobility and honor. It is a defining trait that sets apart the righteous and distinguishes them from others.

The importance of loyalty is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177),

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse highlights the importance of fulfilling promises and being loyal to one's commitments. It emphasizes that true righteousness is not merely in performing rituals or outward displays of piety, but it lies in the sincerity of one's actions and the fulfillment of obligations.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:23), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) praises the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), saying,

Among the believers are men true to what they promised Allah. Among them is he who has fulfilled his vow [to the death], and among them is he who awaits [his chance]. And they did not alter [the terms of their commitment] by any alteration.

This verse exemplifies the loyalty and commitment of the companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) to their faith and their dedication to upholding their promises. It serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of remaining steadfast and loyal to their commitments, just as the companions did.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement regarding loyalty being the trait of the honourable carries profound implications. It reminds Muslims that loyalty is not just a desirable quality, but it is an essential characteristic of those who possess nobility and honor. It is a reflection of one's integrity, trustworthiness, and sincerity.

Loyalty is not limited to fulfilling promises made to others, but it extends to remaining loyal to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His commands. It entails remaining steadfast in the face of trials and tribulations, and not wavering in one's faith or principles.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of loyalty as a trait of the honourable. It highlights the significance of fulfilling one's commitments, remaining steadfast in faith, and upholding one's integrity. Loyalty is not just a desirable quality, but it is an essential characteristic that reflects the nobility and honor of an individual. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be loyal and steadfast in all aspects of our lives.