Hadith #6501

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "ثَمَرَةُ العُجْبِ البَغْضاءُ۔" This can be translated as,

The fruit of conceit is hatred.

In this enlightening saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive consequences of arrogance and pride.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (thamaratu) "ثَمَرَةُ" refers to the fruit or outcome of something. (al-'ujb) "العُجْبِ" denotes conceit or arrogance, which is the state of being excessively proud of oneself. And (al-baghdha) "البَغْضاءُ" means hatred, animosity, or enmity.

This Hadith resonates with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly warns against the perils of arrogance and pride. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76),

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse highlights the story of Qarun, who was blessed with immense wealth but became arrogant and tyrannical. His arrogance led to his downfall and the hatred of his people. Similarly, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that conceit and arrogance can breed animosity and enmity among people.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and respect towards others. It cautions against ridiculing or belittling others, as it can lead to hatred and animosity. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further reinforces this message, reminding us that conceit and arrogance are the seeds that bear the fruit of hatred.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that arrogance and pride not only harm our relationships with others but also distance us from the teachings of Islam. When we become consumed by our own self-importance, we lose sight of the values of humility, compassion, and unity that Islam promotes. Our actions and words become tainted with animosity, causing division and discord within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, reminds us to guard against the destructive nature of conceit. By cultivating humility and recognizing the worth and dignity of every individual, we can foster an environment of love, respect, and unity within the Muslim ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of arrogance and pride. It urges us to reflect on our own attitudes and behaviors, striving to embody the qualities of humility and compassion that Islam teaches. By doing so, we can avoid the fruit of conceit, which is none other than hatred itself. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the path of humility and righteousness.