Hadith #772

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

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

خَيرُ الإخوانِ مَنْ لا يُحْوِجُ إخوانَهُ إلى سِواهُ۔

This beautiful saying emphasizes the importance of selflessness and support within the bonds of brotherhood. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (brothers) "إخوان" in this Hadith refers to the believers, the Muslim ummah as a whole. It encompasses the idea of unity, solidarity, and mutual support among the members of the community. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that the best among the brothers is the one who fulfills the needs of his fellow brothers, to the extent that they do not have to seek assistance from anyone else.

This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and mutual support among Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10),

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

This verse clearly establishes the bond of brotherhood among the believers and encourages them to resolve conflicts and disputes with justice and fairness.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9),

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home (i.e., the city of Medina) and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the exemplary behavior of the Ansar (the residents of Medina) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Mecca). They did not feel any jealousy or resentment towards the Muhajirun but rather prioritized their needs over their own.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes the selflessness and generosity that should be inherent in the hearts of the believers. It encourages us to go beyond the mere fulfillment of basic obligations and actively seek opportunities to support and assist our fellow brothers and sisters in need. This can manifest in various forms, such as providing financial aid, offering emotional support, sharing knowledge, or even simply lending a listening ear.

By embodying the spirit of this Hadith, we can create a strong and united Muslim community, where each individual takes responsibility for the well-being of others. This selflessness not only strengthens the bonds of brotherhood but also fosters a sense of trust, love, and compassion among Muslims. It creates an environment where individuals feel valued, supported, and cared for, which ultimately leads to the overall growth and prosperity of the community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being the best of brothers by fulfilling the needs of our fellow believers, to the extent that they do not have to seek assistance from anyone else. This concept of selflessness and support is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the bond of brotherhood and mutual assistance among Muslims. By embodying this Hadith in our lives, we can create a strong and united Muslim community, where each individual actively contributes to the well-being of others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be the best of brothers and sisters to one another.