Hadith #8423

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

كَمالُ الفَضائِلِ شَرَفُ الخَلائِقِ۔

This can be translated as,

The perfection of virtues is [in] honourable qualities.

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

The word (kamal) "كَمالُ" refers to perfection or completeness. It signifies the attainment of the highest level of excellence in one's character and actions. (al-fada'il) "الفَضائِلِ" refers to virtues or noble qualities. These are the moral and ethical attributes that elevate an individual's character and distinguish them from others. And (sharaf) "شَرَفُ" means honor or dignity. It represents the elevated status and respect that comes with possessing virtuous qualities.

The Hadith emphasizes that the true perfection of virtues lies in possessing honorable qualities. It implies that mere knowledge or recognition of virtues is not enough; rather, it is the embodiment of these virtues in one's character and actions that truly elevates a person's status. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of righteous conduct and noble character.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

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 honor and nobility are not determined by lineage, wealth, or worldly status, but by righteousness and piety. The one who possesses noble qualities and acts righteously is considered honorable in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 character and noble qualities. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to strive for excellence in their conduct and to emulate the Prophet's example.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes that true honor and perfection are attained through the cultivation of virtuous qualities. It encourages Muslims to prioritize the development of their character and to strive for excellence in their actions. By embodying noble qualities such as honesty, compassion, justice, patience, and humility, individuals can elevate themselves and contribute positively to society.

For example, a person who possesses the virtue of honesty will be trusted and respected by others. Their words and actions will carry weight and influence. Similarly, someone who embodies the virtue of compassion will be a source of comfort and support for those in need. Their kindness and empathy will have a positive impact on the lives of others.

Conversely, the absence of virtuous qualities can lead to negative consequences. A person who lacks integrity and honesty may be distrusted and face difficulties in their relationships and endeavors. Likewise, someone who lacks patience and humility may struggle to maintain harmonious interactions with others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true perfection lies in the cultivation of honorable qualities. It urges Muslims to prioritize the development of their character and to strive for excellence in their actions. By embodying noble virtues, we can attain true honor and contribute positively to our communities and society at large. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our pursuit of virtuous qualities and grant us the ability to embody them in our lives.