Hadith #6661

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

مَنْ أصْلَحَ الأضْدادَ بَلَغَ المُرادَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who reforms his adversaries attains his goal.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the teachings of the Quran.

The word (aslaha) "أصْلَحَ" in the Hadith means to rectify, reconcile, or mend. It implies the act of bringing about positive change and harmony in the midst of conflicts or disagreements. It signifies the importance of resolving disputes and differences in a peaceful and constructive manner.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9),

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of reconciliation and peaceful resolution of conflicts within the Muslim community. It encourages believers to strive for unity and harmony, even in the face of disagreements. By reforming our adversaries and seeking to mend broken relationships, we can attain our ultimate goal of establishing peace and justice.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Fussilat (41:34), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.

This verse teaches us the power of responding to hostility with kindness and good deeds. By reforming our adversaries through acts of goodness and righteousness, we have the potential to transform them into close allies and friends. This approach not only brings about personal growth but also contributes to the betterment of society as a whole.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of seeking reconciliation and reforming our adversaries. It encourages us to rise above animosity and strive for unity, peace, and justice. By adopting a compassionate and forgiving attitude, we can overcome conflicts and achieve our goals.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified this quality through his wisdom, knowledge, and patience. His ability to reform his adversaries and bring about positive change is evident in numerous historical incidents, such as the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and the reconciliation with the people of Nahrawan.

As Muslims, we should strive to follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and embody the teachings of the Quran. By reforming our adversaries and seeking reconciliation, we can contribute to a more harmonious and just society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement these teachings in our lives.