Hadith #793

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of reciprocating the friendship and kindness shown by others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who does not attend to the needs of the one who shows friendship towards him has lost a friend.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ta'aahad) "تَعَاهَدْ" means to attend to or fulfill the needs of someone. It implies taking care of the requirements and concerns of a friend or companion. The word (muwaddadahu) "مُوَادِدَهُ" refers to the one who shows friendship or affection towards another. It signifies a person who demonstrates love, loyalty, and kindness.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations and fulfilling the needs of others. In Surah Al-Isra (17:23-24), Allah says,

Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him and that you be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honor. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, 'My Lord! Have mercy on them both as they brought me up when I was small.'

This verse highlights the duty of fulfilling the needs of our parents, who are the epitome of love and affection. It teaches us to treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion. Similarly, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of attending to the needs of those who show friendship towards us.

Neglecting the needs of a friend who has shown us affection can have severe consequences. It can result in the loss of a valuable friendship and the deterioration of trust. By failing to reciprocate the kindness and support we receive, we risk alienating those who care for us. This can lead to feelings of resentment, disappointment, and ultimately, the loss of a friend.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazing Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the needs of others and to actively reciprocate the love and kindness we receive. It encourages us to cultivate strong and lasting relationships based on mutual care and support.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to be attentive to the needs of those who show us friendship. We must be proactive in offering our assistance, support, and love to them. By doing so, we not only strengthen our relationships but also fulfill our duty as Muslims to embody the teachings of compassion, empathy, and kindness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to attend to the needs of those who show friendship towards us. By fulfilling the requirements of our friends and reciprocating their kindness, we strengthen our relationships and uphold the values of compassion and empathy. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in being good friends and companions to one another, and may He bless us with lasting and meaningful relationships.