Hadith #10982

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 pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "التَّواضُعُ أشْرَفُ السُّؤْدَدِ" which translates to

Humility is the most honourable eminence.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and virtue of humility in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "التَّواضُعُ" refers to humility, which is the quality of being modest, unassuming, and having a lowly opinion of oneself. It is the opposite of arrogance and pride. "أشْرَفُ" means the most honorable or noble, indicating that humility is the highest form of excellence. "السُّؤْدَدِ" refers to eminence or distinction, emphasizing that humility is the pinnacle of virtue and righteousness.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of humility and its correlation with righteousness. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that true nobility and honor lies in righteousness, which is closely linked to humility.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse emphasizes that those who do not seek worldly status or engage in corruption, but instead remain humble and righteous, will be rewarded with the best outcome in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound impact of humility on an individual's character and actions. Humility allows a person to recognize their own limitations, weaknesses, and dependence on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It prevents arrogance, pride, and the desire for superiority over others. Instead, it fosters a sense of empathy, compassion, and respect towards all individuals, regardless of their social status or background.

Humility also plays a crucial role in our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through humility that we acknowledge our need for His guidance, mercy, and forgiveness. It allows us to submit ourselves completely to His will and to seek His pleasure above all else. The humble individual recognizes that any success or achievement is solely by the grace of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and thus remains grateful and humble in their demeanor.

Furthermore, humility is a source of strength and wisdom. It enables an individual to learn from others, to accept constructive criticism, and to rectify their own shortcomings. It promotes unity, harmony, and cooperation within society, as it eliminates the barriers of pride and superiority. Humility also serves as a powerful tool for self-improvement and spiritual growth, as it allows one to constantly strive for self-reflection, self-correction, and self-development.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the immense value and significance of humility in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through humility that we attain the highest form of honor and excellence. By embodying humility in our thoughts, actions, and interactions, we can cultivate a righteous character, strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody true humility and may it be a means for our success in this world and the Hereafter.