Hadith #5356

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,

لِكُلِّ إنْسان أرَبٌ فَابْعُدُوا عَنِ الرَّيْبِ۔

This Hadith carries a wise message for all Muslims, emphasizing the importance of distancing ourselves from suspicion. Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (insan) "إنسان" in Arabic refers to a human being, encompassing both men and women. It highlights the universal nature of this teaching, applicable to every individual. The word (arab) "أرَبٌ" can be translated as "desire" or "need." It signifies the innate inclination within every human being to have desires and needs. These desires and needs can vary from person to person, encompassing physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to (distance ourselves from suspicion) "ابْعُدُوا عَنِ الرَّيْبِ". The word (rayb) "رَيْبِ" refers to suspicion, doubt, or conjecture. It implies a state of uncertainty or mistrust in someone's intentions or actions. By urging us to distance ourselves from suspicion, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is guiding us towards maintaining a positive and trusting mindset towards others.

This teaching aligns with the principles of Islam, as the Quran emphasizes the importance of avoiding suspicion and promoting trust and goodwill among Muslims. 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 highlights the negative consequences of suspicion, labeling it as a sin. It also warns against backbiting and spying, which are rooted in suspicion and mistrust. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the importance of fearing Him and seeking His forgiveness, as He is the Most Merciful.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse advises Muslims to verify information before accepting it and acting upon it. It cautions against spreading false rumors or making hasty judgments based on incomplete or unreliable information. By doing so, we can avoid harming others and prevent regrettable consequences.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to adopt a mindset of trust, goodwill, and positive assumptions towards others. It encourages us to give people the benefit of the doubt and refrain from jumping to negative conclusions without sufficient evidence.

By distancing ourselves from suspicion, we can foster harmonious relationships, promote unity within the Muslim community, and create an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect. It also aligns with the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his vast knowledge and wisdom. His emphasis on avoiding suspicion reflects his deep understanding of human nature and the importance of maintaining healthy relationships.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to distance themselves from suspicion and embrace a mindset of trust and positive assumptions towards others. This teaching aligns with the Quranic principles of avoiding negative assumptions, verifying information, and promoting unity within the Muslim community. By following this guidance, we can foster strong bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, and create a society based on trust, love, and understanding. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in implementing this teaching in our lives.