Hadith #10440

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Blessed is the one who has in his soul that which keeps him preoccupied from the [faults of other] people.

This enlightening Hadith highlights the importance of focusing on one's own self-improvement and spiritual growth, rather than being consumed by the faults and shortcomings of others.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (shughlun) "شُغْلٌ" refers to something that occupies or preoccupies a person. It implies being engaged in a meaningful and productive activity that diverts one's attention from negative thoughts or distractions. The word (shaaghilun) "شاغِلٌ" means being fully occupied or absorbed in something.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12),

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 emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions, spying, and backbiting. It encourages Muslims to focus on their own actions and to refrain from indulging in gossip or spreading rumors about others. By doing so, we protect ourselves from falling into sin and maintain a harmonious and respectful community.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse reminds us to refrain from ridiculing or insulting others, as it is a form of disobedience and a violation of the principles of faith. It encourages us to recognize the inherent worth and potential for goodness in every individual, regardless of their outward appearance or actions. By focusing on our own self-improvement and refraining from judging others, we create an atmosphere of respect and unity within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize self-reflection and personal growth. When we are preoccupied with our own faults and shortcomings, we are less likely to be consumed by the faults of others. This mindset allows us to cultivate a sense of empathy, compassion, and understanding towards our fellow Muslims.

By focusing on our own spiritual journey, we become more aware of our own weaknesses and strive to rectify them. This self-awareness leads to personal growth and a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also enables us to approach others with kindness and forgiveness, rather than being quick to judge or criticize.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being preoccupied with our own self-improvement and spiritual development. By focusing on our own faults and striving to rectify them, we create a positive and harmonious environment within the Muslim community. Let us reflect upon this profound teaching and strive to embody it in our daily lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to prioritize our own self-improvement and protect us from the distractions of fault-finding and gossip.