Hadith #10990

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, "تَواضُعُ المَرْءِ يَرْفَعُهُ۔" This can be translated into English as,

The humility of a person elevates him.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of humility in the life of a believer.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (tawāḍuʿ) "تَواضُعُ" refers to the act of being humble, modest, and submissive. It is the opposite of arrogance and pride. The word (marʾi) "مَرْءِ" refers to a person, emphasizing that this teaching is applicable to every individual, regardless of their status or position.

To comprehend the significance of humility in Islam, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance. 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 emphasizes that true nobility and honor lie in righteousness and piety, not in worldly status or wealth. Humility is a key characteristic of the righteous, as it reflects their recognition of their true position in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By humbling oneself before Allah and acknowledging His greatness, a person is elevated in the spiritual realm.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse reminds us that true success and elevation are not attained through seeking power, wealth, or worldly status. Rather, it is achieved through righteousness and detachment from worldly desires. Humility plays a crucial role in this process, as it keeps a person grounded and focused on their ultimate goal of attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound impact of humility on an individual's spiritual journey. When a person humbles themselves before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), they are able to recognize their weaknesses and seek His guidance and mercy. This humility leads to increased self-awareness, self-improvement, and a deeper connection with the Creator.

Moreover, humility enables a person to treat others with kindness, compassion, and respect. It fosters unity and harmony within society, as individuals are not consumed by their own ego and self-interest. By embodying humility, Muslims can create an environment of love, empathy, and understanding, which is essential for the growth and progress of the ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that humility is a virtue that elevates a person in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By humbling ourselves before our Creator, we acknowledge His greatness and submit to His will. This humility leads to spiritual growth, righteousness, and a deep connection with Allah. It also fosters unity and compassion within society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody humility in our lives and elevate our souls through this noble characteristic.