Hadith #2035

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises against initiating combat or seeking confrontation with others. However, if one is challenged or forced into combat, then they should respond. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that the one who initiates the challenge is an aggressor, and the aggressor will ultimately be defeated.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining key words and their implications. The word (mubaraza) "مُبارَزَة" refers to combat or physical confrontation. It encompasses situations where individuals engage in physical conflict, such as duels or battles. The word (du'ita) "دُعيتَ" means being called or invited to participate in combat. It implies that one is being challenged or provoked to engage in a fight. The word (bagh) "باغ" refers to the one who seeks or initiates the confrontation, while (masru'un) "مَصْرُوعٌ" denotes being struck down or defeated.

To understand the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of peace, reconciliation, and avoiding aggression. In Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:96), Allah says,

Repel evil with that which is better. Then, behold, the one between whom and you there was enmity will become as though he was a close friend.

This verse encourages Muslims to respond to aggression with kindness and to strive for reconciliation rather than seeking revenge or engaging in combat.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190), Allah commands,

Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse highlights the principle of self-defense, allowing Muslims to respond to aggression when necessary. However, it also emphasizes the importance of restraint and avoiding excessive force. Muslims are prohibited from initiating aggression or transgressing the limits set by Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice aligns perfectly with these Quranic teachings. He advises against seeking combat or initiating confrontation, as it goes against the principles of peace and reconciliation. However, if one is forced into combat, they should respond in self-defense, ensuring that their actions are within the boundaries set by Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound understanding and knowledge of the Quran allowed him to provide this guidance. His wisdom and insight were derived from his close companionship with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his deep understanding of the teachings of Islam.

By adhering to Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice, Muslims can maintain peace and avoid unnecessary conflicts. This Hadith serves as a reminder to always strive for peaceful resolutions and to only resort to physical confrontation when absolutely necessary for self-defense. It teaches us the importance of restraint, wisdom, and adhering to the principles of Islam in all aspects of our lives.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to follow the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the ability to uphold peace and justice in our interactions with others.