Hadith #9413

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "ثَمَرَةُ اللَّجاجِ العَطَبُ۔" This can be translated as

The fruit of stubbornness is ruin.

In this enlightening saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive consequences of stubbornness and its impact on one's life.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "Thamarah" refers to the fruit or outcome of something, while "lajaj" signifies stubbornness or obstinacy. Lastly, "atb" means ruin or destruction.

The Quran provides us with guidance on the importance of humility and the dangers of stubbornness. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 31:18)

And 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.

This verse emphasizes the need for humility and warns against arrogance and pride. Stubbornness often stems from a sense of self-importance and an unwillingness to accept differing opinions or guidance. Such an attitude can lead to ruin, as it blinds individuals to their own faults and prevents them from seeking improvement.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of stubbornness. He says, (Quran 13:25)

But those who break the covenant of Allah after contracting it and sever that which Allah has ordered to be joined and spread corruption on earth - for them is the curse, and they will have the worst home.

This verse highlights the destructive nature of breaking promises and causing discord. Stubbornness often leads to the breaking of agreements and the severing of relationships, which ultimately results in corruption and ruin.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of humility and open-mindedness. It urges us to reflect on our own attitudes and behaviors, and to strive for self-improvement. By being receptive to different perspectives and willing to admit our own mistakes, we can avoid the ruin that stubbornness brings.

Stubbornness can manifest in various aspects of our lives, such as in personal relationships, religious beliefs, or even in matters of worldly affairs. For example, if a person is stubborn in their relationships, refusing to compromise or listen to the needs of others, it can lead to the breakdown of those relationships and the ruin of their social connections.

Similarly, in matters of faith, stubbornness can prevent individuals from seeking knowledge and understanding. It can hinder their ability to grow spiritually and develop a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This rigidity can also lead to division and conflict within the Muslim community, undermining the unity and strength of the ummah.

In worldly affairs, stubbornness can hinder progress and prevent individuals from adapting to changing circumstances. It can blind them to new opportunities and prevent them from making wise decisions. This inflexibility can have severe consequences, both personally and professionally.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, Muslims are encouraged to cultivate humility, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn and grow. By doing so, we can avoid the ruin that stubbornness brings and strive for a more harmonious and successful life.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to embrace humility and wisdom, and protect us from the destructive consequences of stubbornness. May we always seek knowledge, understanding, and the ability to adapt to the changing circumstances of life. Ameen.