Hadith #4270

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

المُسْتَبِدُّ مُتَهَوِّرٌ فِي الخَطاءِ والغَلَطِ۔

This Hadith highlights the characteristics of an individual who is opinionated or stubborn. The word "المُسْتَبِدُّ" refers to someone who is authoritative, dictatorial, or tyrannical in their approach. They impose their opinions and beliefs on others without considering alternative perspectives. The word "مُتَهَوِّرٌ" means that such a person is prone to making mistakes and blunders due to their stubbornness and refusal to accept differing viewpoints.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against arrogance and the refusal to accept the truth in several verses. For example, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:146), Allah says,

I will turn away from My signs those who are arrogant upon the earth without right; and if they should see every sign, they will not believe in it.

This verse highlights the consequence of being stubborn and arrogant, which is the inability to recognize and accept the signs of truth.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:56), Allah says,

Indeed, you [O Muhammad] do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse emphasizes that true guidance comes from Allah alone, and no individual can impose their opinions or beliefs on others. It is a reminder that we should be humble and open-minded, seeking guidance from Allah rather than relying solely on our own limited understanding.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to avoid falling into the trap of arrogance and stubbornness. When we become opinionated and refuse to consider alternative viewpoints, we are more likely to make errors and blunders. This can have severe consequences not only for ourselves but also for those around us.

For instance, imagine a person who is adamant about their interpretation of a religious matter and refuses to listen to others. They may end up misguiding themselves and others, causing division and confusion within the community. On the other hand, a person who is open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives is more likely to arrive at the truth and foster unity among Muslims.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom. He possessed a deep understanding of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). His humility and willingness to learn from others set an example for all Muslims. He never hesitated to correct his own mistakes and was open to accepting the truth, even if it went against his initial beliefs.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid being opinionated and stubborn. We should strive to be humble, open-minded, and willing to consider different perspectives. By doing so, we can avoid falling into error and blunder, and instead, seek guidance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the teachings of the Quran. May Allah guide us all and grant us the wisdom to recognize and accept the truth.