Hadith #6806

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

إصْحَبِ النّاسَ بِما تُحِبُّ أنْ يَصْحَبُوكَ تَأمَنْهُمْ ويَأمَنُوكَ

which can be translated as,

Associate with people in the way that you would like them to associate with you, [by doing this] you will be safe from them and they will be safe from you.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and compassion. It emphasizes the principle of reciprocity in human interactions, where we should treat others in the same manner that we desire to be treated. By doing so, we create an environment of trust, safety, and harmony.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds its roots in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good character and treating others with kindness. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 13, Allah 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 of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the diversity among people and encourages us to embrace this diversity by getting to know one another. By associating with others in a manner that we desire for ourselves, we build bridges of understanding and foster a sense of unity among different individuals and communities.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 53, Allah says,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse reminds us to always choose our words and actions wisely, speaking and behaving in the best possible manner. By doing so, we prevent the whisperings of Satan from causing discord and division among people. Instead, we create an atmosphere of peace and harmony, where others feel safe and secure in our presence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaching also reflects the concept of "Ihsan" mentioned in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83, Allah says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the importance of speaking good words to people, which includes treating them with kindness and respect. By associating with others in a manner that we desire for ourselves, we fulfill the command of Allah to speak good words and engage in acts of kindness towards others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaching has profound implications for our daily lives. It reminds us to be mindful of our interactions with others, whether they are family, friends, colleagues, or strangers. By treating others with kindness, respect, and compassion, we create a positive and harmonious environment where trust and mutual understanding can flourish.

Moreover, this teaching encourages us to reflect on our own behavior and consider how our actions may impact others. It reminds us to be mindful of our words, actions, and intentions, ensuring that they align with the principles of justice, empathy, and compassion.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to associate with others in the way that they would like to be associated with. By embodying the principles of kindness, respect, and compassion, we can create a society that is safe, harmonious, and built upon mutual understanding. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement this teaching in our lives, and may He bless us with the ability to treat others with the same love and compassion that we desire for ourselves.