Hadith #7919

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مِنْ أشْرَفِ الشِّيَمِ اَلوَفاءُ بِالذِّمَمِ

which translates to

One of the most honourable of traits is being faithful to your pledges.

This enlightening saying highlights the significance of fulfilling one's commitments and promises.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The term (ashraf) "أشْرَفِ" refers to the most noble or honorable qualities. It signifies the elevated status of being faithful to one's pledges. The word (ash-shiym) "الشِّيَمِ" can be understood as traits or characteristics. Therefore, the Hadith emphasizes that among the most noble qualities a person can possess is the virtue of fulfilling their obligations and keeping their promises.

To further understand the importance of this trait, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:34),

And fulfill every commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

This verse highlights the significance of fulfilling commitments and reminds us that we will be held accountable for our promises on the Day of Judgment.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:1), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling contracts and agreements, which includes keeping one's promises and pledges. It is a fundamental principle of Islam to honor and fulfill our obligations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be steadfast in fulfilling their commitments. It encompasses various aspects of life, including fulfilling financial obligations, honoring agreements, and maintaining trust in relationships. By being faithful to our pledges, we demonstrate integrity, sincerity, and reliability.

Being faithful to our pledges has far-reaching implications. It fosters trust and strengthens the bonds within society. When individuals fulfill their promises, it creates a sense of security and stability. Conversely, failing to honor commitments can lead to broken relationships, loss of trust, and societal discord.

Moreover, being faithful to our pledges extends beyond our interactions with fellow human beings. It also includes fulfilling our obligations to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). As Muslims, we have made a covenant with Allah through our declaration of faith, prayers, fasting, and other acts of worship. By fulfilling these obligations, we demonstrate our devotion and submission to our Creator.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to uphold the virtue of being faithful to their pledges. It encourages us to fulfill our commitments, honor our promises, and maintain trust in all aspects of our lives. By embodying this noble trait, we not only strengthen our character but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be faithful to our pledges and fulfill our obligations with sincerity and integrity. May He bless us with the strength to uphold this noble trait and earn His pleasure in this world and the Hereafter.