Hadith #10994

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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, "حاصِلُ التَّواضُعِ الشَّرَفُ۔" which translates to

The result of humility is honor.

This thought-provoking saying emphasizes the importance of humility in attaining true honor and dignity in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (tawāḍuʿ) "تَوَاضُع" refers to humility, which is the quality of being modest, unpretentious, and recognizing one's own limitations and weaknesses. It is the opposite of arrogance and pride. The word (sharaf) "شَرَف" means honor, nobility, and distinction. It is a state of being esteemed and respected.

To comprehend the significance of humility leading to honor, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 that true honor and nobility are not based on one's lineage, wealth, or worldly status, but rather on righteousness and piety. It is the humble and righteous individuals who are honored by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) regardless of their social standing. Their humility stems from recognizing their dependence on Allah and their accountability to Him.

Another verse that supports the concept of humility leading to honor is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse highlights that those who do not seek worldly power, status, or corruption, but instead remain humble and focused on the Hereafter, will be granted the best outcome. Their honor and success lie in their righteousness and their detachment from worldly desires.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that true honor is not achieved through arrogance, pride, or seeking superiority over others. Rather, it is attained through humility, recognizing our weaknesses, and submitting ourselves to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we humble ourselves before Allah, seeking His pleasure and guidance, He elevates us in honor and grants us success in this world and the Hereafter.

Humility allows us to develop a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His forgiveness and mercy. It enables us to acknowledge our flaws and seek improvement, leading to personal growth and spiritual elevation. Humility also fosters unity and harmony among Muslims, as it eliminates feelings of superiority and fosters a sense of equality and brotherhood.

Furthermore, humility serves as a protection against arrogance, which is condemned in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Al-Isra (17:37),

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse reminds us that no matter how high we may perceive ourselves to be, our true worth lies in our humility and submission to Allah. Arrogance only leads to destruction and distance from the mercy of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that humility is the key to attaining true honor and dignity in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through recognizing our weaknesses, submitting to the will of Allah, and seeking His pleasure that we are elevated in honor. Humility protects us from arrogance and fosters unity among Muslims. May we all strive to cultivate humility in our hearts and actions, and may Allah grant us true honor in this world and the Hereafter.