Hadith #9706

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two important qualities that encompass the essence of magnanimity. The first quality mentioned is "ijtinab" which means to abstain or refrain from something that brings disgrace or dishonor. The second quality is "iktisab" which means to acquire or attain something that adorns or embellishes a person.

To understand the depth and significance of these qualities, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (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. 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 emphasizes the importance of refraining from actions or words that bring disgrace or humiliation to others. It teaches us to treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their social status, race, or gender. By practicing "ijtinab," we not only preserve our own honor but also contribute to a harmonious and compassionate society.

The second quality mentioned in the Hadith is "iktisab," which refers to acquiring or attaining that which adorns or embellishes a person. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:26), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember.

This verse highlights the importance of acquiring qualities and attributes that beautify our character and elevate our status in the sight of Allah. It encourages us to seek righteousness, piety, and moral excellence. By acquiring these virtues, we not only enhance our own self-worth but also inspire others to strive for goodness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the consolidation of magnanimity through these two qualities. By refraining from actions that bring disgrace and acquiring virtues that embellish our character, we become individuals who are respected and admired by others.

Practicing "ijtinab" ensures that we do not engage in backbiting, slander, or any form of harmful speech that tarnishes our reputation and the reputation of others. It teaches us to control our tongues and speak only that which is beneficial and uplifting.

On the other hand, "iktisab" urges us to actively seek knowledge, engage in acts of charity, display kindness and compassion towards others, and strive for moral excellence. By acquiring these virtues, we become individuals who are adorned with the qualities that are pleasing to Allah and beloved by the people around us.

The consequences of practicing these qualities are profound. When we refrain from actions that bring disgrace, we protect our own dignity and honor. We also contribute to a positive and respectful environment where individuals are valued for their character and not judged based on their flaws or mistakes.

Similarly, when we actively acquire virtues that embellish our character, we become beacons of light and inspiration for others. Our actions and words become a source of guidance and motivation for those around us. We become role models who inspire others to strive for goodness and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of two qualities that consolidate magnanimity: refraining from actions that bring disgrace and acquiring virtues that embellish our character. By practicing "ijtinab" and "iktisab," we not only preserve our own honor and dignity but also contribute to a harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and become individuals who are respected and admired by others.