Hadith #10253

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

لا يَنْتَصِفُ الكَريمُ مِنَ اللَّئِيمِ۔

This can be translated as,

The noble person does not seek justice from the wicked.

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

First, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (karim) "كَريمُ" refers to a noble or generous person, while (la'im) "لَئِيمِ" refers to someone wicked or ignoble. The word (yantasifu) "يَنْتَصِفُ" means to seek justice or retribution.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:45),

And We ordained for them therein a life for a life, an eye for an eye, a nose for a nose, an ear for an ear, a tooth for a tooth, and for wounds is legal retribution.

This verse emphasizes the principle of seeking justice and retribution for wrongdoing.

However, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights a deeper understanding. It teaches us that a noble person does not lower themselves to seek justice from the wicked. This means that a person of noble character does not engage in revenge or retaliation, even when they have the right to do so.

This teaching is in line with the Quranic principle of forgiveness and patience. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:199),

Take what is given freely, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant.

This verse encourages us to respond to ignorance and wrongdoing with goodness and turning away, rather than seeking revenge.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this noble character throughout his life. Despite facing numerous injustices and betrayals, he always responded with patience, forgiveness, and wisdom. One notable example is the Battle of Siffin, where Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was faced with the rebellion of Muawiyah. Despite the injustices committed against him, he chose to seek a peaceful resolution and avoid further bloodshed.

The consequences of following this teaching are profound. By refraining from seeking justice from the wicked, a noble person maintains their dignity and integrity. They rise above the negativity and cruelty of others, setting an example of righteousness and forgiveness. This not only brings peace to their own hearts but also has the potential to inspire positive change in others.

As Muslims, we should strive to embody the noble character taught by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Instead of seeking revenge or retribution, we should respond to injustice with patience, forgiveness, and wisdom. By doing so, we uphold the values of Islam and contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the strength to embody noble character in all aspects of our lives.