Hadith #7968

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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 refraining from pursuing the faults of others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, teaches us that this act is not only detestable but also one of the worst evils. Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (tatabbu) "تَتَبُّعُ" in the Hadith refers to the act of pursuing or seeking out the faults of others. It implies a deliberate effort to uncover and expose the shortcomings and flaws of individuals. This behavior is condemned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) as it goes against the principles of righteousness and moral conduct.

The Hadith states that pursuing faults is (min aqbahi al-'uyub) "مِنْ أقْبَحِ العُيُوبِ", meaning it is one of the most detestable of faults. This emphasizes the severity of this action and the negative consequences it can have on individuals and society as a whole. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran about the dangers of backbiting and slandering others.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding negative assumptions about others and refraining from backbiting. Allah compares backbiting to eating the flesh of one's brother, illustrating the repugnance of such an act. It is clear that pursuing the faults of others is not only morally wrong but also spiritually harmful.

Furthermore, the Hadith describes pursuing faults as (sharrissayyiat) "شَرِّ السَّيِّئاتِ", meaning it is one of the worst evils. This indicates that engaging in such behavior leads to the spread of negativity, discord, and harm within society. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us in the Quran to promote unity, harmony, and forgiveness.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah says,

Indeed, the believers are brothers. So make peace between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining brotherhood and fostering peace among believers. Pursuing the faults of others goes against this principle and disrupts the unity and love that should exist within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us through this Hadith that instead of focusing on the faults of others, we should strive to improve ourselves and help others in a positive and constructive manner. By doing so, we contribute to the betterment of society and create an environment of compassion, understanding, and forgiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to refrain from pursuing the faults of others. This act is not only detestable but also one of the worst evils. By focusing on self-improvement and promoting unity and forgiveness, we can create a harmonious and compassionate society, in line with the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May Allah guide us all to follow this guidance and protect us from the pitfalls of pursuing the faults of others.