Hadith #10160

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

مُنازَعةُ السَّفَل تَشينُ السّادَةَ۔

This can be translated as,

Disputing with the ignoble ones disgraces the [status of the] eminent ones.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance in light of the Quran.

The word (munazahat) "مُنازَعةُ" refers to engaging in disputes or arguments. It implies entering into a verbal confrontation with others, often with the intention of proving oneself right or asserting dominance. The term (as-safal) "السَّفَل" refers to those who are lowly, base, or of low status. They lack moral integrity, knowledge, and wisdom. On the other hand, (as-sadat) "السّادَةَ" refers to the noble ones, the esteemed individuals who possess qualities such as piety, knowledge, and wisdom.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the consequences of engaging in disputes with those who are morally and intellectually inferior. He warns that such disputes tarnish the reputation and status of the noble ones. This is because when the noble ones stoop down to argue with those who lack integrity and wisdom, they inadvertently lower themselves to the level of the ignoble ones. This not only diminishes their own status but also undermines the credibility of their knowledge and wisdom.

The Quran provides us with guidance that supports this understanding. In Surah Al-Mujadila (58:14), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Have you not seen those who take for friends a people upon whom is the wrath of Allah? They are neither of you nor of them, and they swear to a lie while they know.

This verse highlights the importance of choosing our companions wisely. Associating with those who are morally corrupt and lacking in integrity can have a negative impact on our own reputation and character.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am (6:68), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) saying,

And when you see those who engage in [offensive] discourse concerning Our verses, then turn away from them until they enter into another conversation. And if Satan should cause you to forget, then do not remain after the reminder with the wrongdoing people.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding arguments and disputes with those who engage in offensive discourse or seek to undermine the truth. It is a reminder to the Prophet (ﷺ) and by extension to all Muslims, to disengage from such conversations and not allow ourselves to be drawn into futile debates.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of maintaining their dignity and integrity in all situations. Engaging in disputes with those who lack moral and intellectual integrity not only brings down the noble ones but also fails to bring about any positive change. Instead, it is more beneficial to focus on constructive dialogue, seeking knowledge, and promoting unity among Muslims.

By refraining from disputing with the ignoble ones, the noble ones uphold their own status and preserve the integrity of their knowledge and wisdom. They demonstrate the qualities of patience, wisdom, and humility, which are highly regarded in Islam. This approach allows them to maintain their influence and credibility, and it also serves as an example for others to follow.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the importance of avoiding disputes with those who lack moral and intellectual integrity. Engaging in arguments with such individuals not only diminishes the status of the noble ones but also undermines their knowledge and wisdom. The Quran supports this understanding by emphasizing the need to choose our companions wisely and to disengage from offensive discourse. Muslims are encouraged to uphold their dignity, seek knowledge, and promote unity, rather than wasting their energy on futile disputes. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to follow the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and to avoid engaging in disputes that bring no benefit.