Hadith #7910

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

لاعَهْدَ لِمَنْ لا وَفاءَ لَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who has no loyalty cannot keep a promise.

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

The word "لاعَهْدَ" in the Hadith refers to a promise or covenant. It signifies a commitment made between two parties, which is meant to be upheld and honored. The word "لِمَنْ" means "for the one" or "to the one." It emphasizes the importance of fulfilling promises to those who deserve loyalty and trust. The term "لا" negates the presence of loyalty or faithfulness, indicating that if someone lacks loyalty, they will not be able to fulfill their promises.

This Hadith highlights the significance of loyalty and its direct connection to keeping promises. Loyalty is a fundamental quality that is highly valued in Islam. It encompasses faithfulness, sincerity, and steadfastness in fulfilling one's obligations and commitments. When a person lacks loyalty, they are unable to maintain their promises because they do not possess the necessary dedication and integrity.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of loyalty and fulfilling promises. In Surah Al-Isra (17:34), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

This verse highlights the obligation to fulfill commitments and the accountability that follows if one fails to do so. It reinforces the idea that loyalty and keeping promises are essential aspects of a believer's character.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:1), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling all contracts and agreements, emphasizing the significance of loyalty and keeping promises in all aspects of life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to uphold their commitments and promises. It highlights the inseparable link between loyalty and fulfilling promises. If a person lacks loyalty, they will inevitably fail to keep their promises because loyalty is the driving force behind honoring commitments.

This Hadith also serves as a reflection of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) immense knowledge and wisdom. His profound understanding of human nature and the importance of loyalty in maintaining trust and fulfilling obligations is evident in this concise statement.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the vital lesson that one who lacks loyalty cannot keep a promise. Loyalty is a fundamental quality that is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. It is essential for Muslims to be loyal and faithful in fulfilling their commitments and promises, as it is a reflection of their character and integrity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be loyal and fulfill our promises, and may He bless us with the wisdom and understanding to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).