Hadith #4921

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

مَنْ سالَمَ النّاسَ رَبِحَ السَّلامَةَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who is peaceful with the people gains security.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (salam) "سالَمَ" in this Hadith refers to being peaceful, tranquil, and harmonious. It encompasses not only the absence of conflict but also the presence of goodwill, kindness, and compassion towards others. It is a state of inner peace and serenity that reflects in one's interactions with others.

The word (nas) "نّاسَ" refers to people in general, encompassing all individuals regardless of their race, religion, or social status. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace and harmony with all members of society, regardless of our differences.

The word (rabih) "رَبِحَ" means to gain, profit, or achieve success. In this context, it signifies the immense benefits and rewards that come from practicing peace and maintaining good relations with others.

The word (as-salamah) "السَّلامَةَ" refers to security, safety, and well-being. It encompasses both physical and spiritual security. By being peaceful with others, one not only ensures their own safety but also contributes to the overall well-being and harmony of society.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of peace and harmony in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:208),

O you who have believed, enter into peace completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse highlights the command to embrace peace wholeheartedly and to reject any form of discord or enmity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and maintaining peace among believers, highlighting the unity and brotherhood that should exist within the Muslim community.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) complements these Quranic teachings by emphasizing the personal and societal benefits of practicing peace. When we strive to be peaceful with others, we create an environment of trust, respect, and harmony. This leads to a sense of security and well-being for ourselves and those around us.

Practicing peace also has profound consequences on our own spiritual growth. It is through peaceful interactions that we develop patience, forgiveness, and empathy. By embodying the qualities of peace, we reflect the teachings of Islam and the noble character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt.

Moreover, being peaceful with others is not limited to avoiding conflicts or arguments. It extends to actively seeking opportunities to spread peace, kindness, and compassion. This can be done through acts of charity, offering a helping hand, or simply offering a kind word or smile to those around us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the immense value of practicing peace and maintaining good relations with others. By doing so, we not only gain personal security and well-being but also contribute to the establishment of a peaceful and harmonious society. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the teachings of peace and spread it in our interactions with others.