Hadith #2971

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

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully describes the elevated status and unique qualities of the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ). Let us delve into the exegesis of this hadith, exploring its words and their meanings in light of the Quran.

The Imam begins by stating,

We are the [family] tree of Prophethood.

Here, the term "shajaratun-nubuwwah" refers to the lineage of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which includes the Ahl al-Bayt. The Quran affirms the significance of lineage in matters of guidance and leadership. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:41), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And know that whatever you obtain of war booty - indeed, for Allah is one fifth of it and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and the orphans, the needy, and the [stranded] traveler.

The Imam then continues,

the station of revelation.

This phrase, "mahattu-r-risalah," highlights the position of the Ahl al-Bayt as the recipients and bearers of divine revelation. The Quran emphasizes the role of the Prophet's family in preserving and transmitting the message of Allah. In Surah Al-Ahzab (33:33), Allah says,

Indeed, Allah desires to repel all impurity from you, O people of the [Prophet's] household, and purify you with a thorough purification.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

the ones upon whom angels descend.

This phrase, "mukhtalifu-l-mala'ikah," signifies the special connection between the Ahl al-Bayt and the angelic realm. The Quran confirms the presence of angels in the company of the righteous. In Surah An-Nahl (16:50), Allah says,

And they [the angels] are not arrogant toward worshipping Him. They fear their Lord above them, and they do what they are commanded.

The Imam then describes the Ahl al-Bayt as

the fountains of wisdom and the sources of knowledge.

This phrase, "yanabi'u-l-hikmah wa ma'adinu-l-'ilm," highlights their unparalleled wisdom and knowledge. The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and the high status of those who possess it. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah says,

Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.

Finally, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Our helpers and lovers await mercy while our enemies and haters await wrath.

This statement emphasizes the consequences of one's relationship with the Ahl al-Bayt. Those who support and love them will be recipients of Allah's mercy, while those who oppose and harbor hatred towards them will face divine wrath. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of love and support for the Prophet's family. In Surah Al-Shura (42:23), Allah says,

Say, 'I do not ask you for it any payment - only that whoever wills might take to his Lord a way.'

In conclusion, this hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides a profound insight into the exalted status and unique qualities of the Ahl al-Bayt. Their lineage, connection to revelation, presence of angels, wisdom, and knowledge make them a source of guidance and blessings for all Muslims. It is incumbent upon us to love, support, and seek mercy through our affiliation with the Ahl al-Bayt, while avoiding enmity and hatred towards them. May Allah bless us with the ability to follow the path of the Ahl al-Bayt and attain His mercy.