Hadith #6691

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) highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced approach in dealing with conflicts and disputes. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who exceeds in [his] animosity has sinned and one who falls short [and does not show enmity when it is required] is defeated.

Let us delve into the meanings of some important words in this Hadith. The word (bālagha) "بالَغَ" means to exceed or go beyond the limits. In this context, it refers to exceeding the boundaries of animosity or enmity. The word (khusima) "خُصِمَ" means to engage in a dispute or conflict. It signifies a situation where one is faced with an opponent or an enemy.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of moderation and balance in various aspects of our lives. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:143)

And thus We have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining justice and fairness in our actions and interactions.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat, (Quran 49:11)

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding excessive animosity or mockery towards others, as it can lead to sin and defeat.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strike a balance in their approach towards conflicts. On one hand, exceeding the limits of animosity and engaging in excessive aggression or enmity is condemned as a sin. This excessive behavior goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

On the other hand, falling short and failing to show enmity when it is necessary can lead to defeat. This does not mean that Muslims should seek out conflicts or engage in unnecessary disputes. Rather, it highlights the importance of standing up for justice and defending oneself and others when faced with oppression or injustice. Failing to do so can result in defeat and the perpetuation of wrongdoing.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, provides us with this guidance to navigate the complexities of conflicts and disputes. He encourages Muslims to adopt a balanced approach, where they neither exceed the limits of animosity nor fall short in defending what is right.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to maintain a balanced approach in dealing with conflicts and disputes. Exceeding the limits of animosity is condemned as a sin, while falling short in showing enmity when it is necessary can lead to defeat. By following the teachings of Islam and seeking guidance from the Quran, Muslims can strive to uphold justice, mercy, and reconciliation in their interactions with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to navigate conflicts with grace and righteousness.