Hadith #10338

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 noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to

Turn away from the path of mutual aversion and abandon the crowns of boastfulness.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance in light of the Quran.

The word (turn away) "عَرِّجُوا" in the Hadith refers to diverting oneself from a particular path or direction. It implies a conscious decision to distance oneself from a negative behavior or attitude. In this context, it urges Muslims to refrain from engaging in mutual aversion, which can lead to animosity and division within the community.

The term (the path of mutual aversion) "طَريقِ المُنافَرَةِ" signifies a path that leads to enmity and discord among individuals. It warns against harboring ill feelings, grudges, and animosity towards one another. Islam emphasizes the importance of unity, brotherhood, and love among Muslims, as stated in the Quran:

(Quran 3:103)

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.

(Quran 49:10)

Indeed, the believers are brothers.

The Hadith further advises us to (abandon the crowns of boastfulness) "ضَعُوا تِيجانَ الْمُفاخَرَةِ". Here, the term (crowns of boastfulness) "تِيجانَ الْمُفاخَرَةِ" symbolizes arrogance, pride, and self-importance. It urges Muslims to let go of their egos and avoid boasting about their achievements, wealth, or status.

The Quran repeatedly condemns arrogance and pride, reminding us of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the importance of humility before Allah:

(Quran 31:18)

Do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

(Quran 57:23)

Indeed, Allah does not like the arrogant, the boastful.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith encourages Muslims to adopt a humble and modest attitude, recognizing that all blessings come from Allah and that true honor lies in righteousness and piety, not in worldly possessions or achievements.

By turning away from mutual aversion and abandoning the crowns of boastfulness, Muslims can foster unity, harmony, and a sense of brotherhood within the community. This Hadith reminds us of the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and empathy, regardless of their social status or differences.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we should strive to cultivate a spirit of humility, gratitude, and compassion in our interactions with others. We should seek to build bridges of understanding, forgiveness, and reconciliation, rather than nurturing animosity and division. By doing so, we can contribute to the establishment of a peaceful and harmonious society, in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the noble teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the wisdom to turn away from mutual aversion and abandon the crowns of boastfulness. May He unite the hearts of Muslims and bless us with unity, love, and brotherhood. Ameen.