Hadith #894

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The noblest of personal merits is good etiquette.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette in the life of a Muslim. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word "ashraf" in Arabic means noblest or most honorable. It refers to something that holds the highest rank or status. "Hasab" means personal merits or qualities, while "husn al-adab" translates to good etiquette or manners. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the significance of possessing good manners as the most honorable attribute one can possess.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4),

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse was revealed in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who was known for his impeccable manners and conduct. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to follow the example of the Prophet (ﷺ) and strive for excellence in their behavior.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety, which includes good manners and etiquette. It is not about one's lineage, wealth, or worldly status. The most honorable person in the sight of Allah is the one who possesses the best character and conducts themselves with kindness, respect, and humility towards others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of good etiquette because it has far-reaching consequences. Good manners not only enhance our relationships with others but also reflect our faith and devotion to Allah. They create an atmosphere of harmony, respect, and love within society.

When we treat others with kindness and respect, we inspire others to do the same. Our good manners can have a profound impact on those around us, leading them towards the path of righteousness and goodness. Conversely, if we neglect our manners and behave inappropriately, we risk causing harm, discord, and division within our communities.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasis on good etiquette also highlights the importance of knowledge. He was known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, and he understood that true knowledge is not limited to intellectual pursuits but also encompasses the way we interact with others. Knowledge without good manners is incomplete and can lead to arrogance and pride. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to seek knowledge and combine it with good manners to truly embody the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of good manners and etiquette in our lives. It is the noblest of personal merits and reflects our righteousness and devotion to Allah. By embodying good manners, we not only enhance our relationships with others but also contribute to the betterment of society. Let us strive to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the teachings of the Quran, embodying good manners in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate good etiquette and be a source of goodness and guidance for others.