Hadith #10904

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Two things cannot be matched in weight by any [other] action: virtuous piety and kindness towards the believers.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of two essential qualities in a believer's life: (virtuous piety) "husn al-wara" and (kindness towards the believers) "ihsan ila al-mu'minin".

Let us delve into the meanings of these words to gain a deeper understanding. "Husn al-wara" refers to the highest level of piety and righteousness, where a person refrains from anything that may be doubtful or harmful to their faith. It encompasses not only the fulfillment of religious obligations but also the avoidance of any actions that may lead to sin or compromise one's spiritual well-being. It is a state of constant awareness and consciousness of Allah's presence, seeking to please Him in every aspect of life.

The second quality mentioned in the Hadith is "ihsan ila al-mu'minin," which translates to kindness towards the believers. This encompasses treating fellow Muslims with compassion, empathy, and respect. It involves going beyond the minimum requirements of justice and extending acts of goodness and benevolence towards others. It includes acts of charity, helping those in need, and being a source of support and comfort for fellow believers.

To understand the significance of these qualities, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

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 emphasizes the importance of knowing and understanding one another as a means to foster unity and brotherhood among believers. It highlights that the true measure of nobility and superiority lies in righteousness and piety. Therefore, the qualities mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) align with the teachings of the Quran, emphasizing the significance of virtuous piety and kindness towards fellow Muslims.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse encourages believers to spend in the way of Allah and engage in acts of goodness. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness and generosity, which are integral components of kindness towards fellow believers. By practicing virtuous piety and showing kindness, we not only fulfill our obligations towards Allah but also earn His love and pleasure.

The consequences of embodying these qualities are profound. When a believer strives for virtuous piety and kindness towards others, they become a source of inspiration and guidance for those around them. Their actions have a ripple effect, spreading positivity and fostering a sense of unity within the Muslim community. It creates an environment of love, compassion, and support, where believers can thrive and grow together.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the importance of nurturing our spirituality and treating others with kindness and compassion. These qualities are not only essential for our personal growth but also for the betterment of the Muslim ummah as a whole. By embodying virtuous piety and kindness towards fellow believers, we can contribute to the establishment of a harmonious and loving society, guided by the principles of Islam.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate virtuous piety and kindness towards our fellow Muslims. May He bless us with the strength to embody these qualities in our daily lives and be a source of goodness for others. Ameen.