Hadith #10539

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,

مَنْ لَمْ يُصْلِحْ نَفْسَهُ لَمْ يُصْلِحْ غَيْرَهُ۔

This Hadith is a thought-provoking saying that emphasizes the importance of self-reformation before attempting to reform others. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (yuslih) "يُصْلِحْ" in the Hadith means "to reform" or "to rectify." It implies the act of improving oneself or others by correcting their behavior, beliefs, or actions. The word (nafsahu) "نَفْسَهُ" refers to oneself, indicating the need for personal introspection and self-improvement. The phrase (lam yuslih ghayrahu) "لَمْ يُصْلِحْ غَيْرَهُ" means "cannot reform others." It highlights the fact that one who has not reformed themselves is incapable of guiding or influencing others towards righteousness.

The Quran provides us with several verses that support the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of self-reformation by warning against ridiculing or insulting others. It implies that one should focus on their own faults and strive to rectify them before passing judgment on others. By doing so, we can avoid falling into the trap of arrogance and self-righteousness.

Another verse that aligns with the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:44), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Do you order righteousness of the people and forget yourselves while you recite the Scripture? Then will you not reason?

This verse admonishes those who advocate for righteousness but neglect their own self-improvement. It serves as a reminder that true reform starts from within, and one should not neglect their own spiritual growth while focusing on others.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to prioritize self-reformation before attempting to guide or reform others. It highlights the importance of personal growth and introspection as the foundation for positive change in society. By focusing on improving ourselves, we become better equipped to positively influence those around us.

For example, imagine a person who constantly criticizes others for their shortcomings without reflecting on their own flaws. Such an individual may be perceived as hypocritical and ineffective in their attempts to bring about positive change. On the other hand, a person who strives to rectify their own behavior and character becomes a role model for others, inspiring them to embark on their own journey of self-improvement.

The consequences of neglecting self-reformation are twofold. Firstly, one may fall into the trap of arrogance and self-righteousness, which hinders their ability to connect with others and guide them towards righteousness. Secondly, without personal growth, one's actions and words may lack sincerity and authenticity, diminishing their impact on others.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded to prioritize self-reformation as a means of positively influencing society. By embodying the values and teachings of Islam in our own lives, we become beacons of guidance for others. It is through our own transformation that we can effectively contribute to the betterment of our families, communities, and ultimately, the entire Muslim ummah.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to continuously strive for self-reformation, so that we may be a source of guidance and inspiration for others. And may He bless us all with His mercy and forgiveness.