Hadith #9744

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Too much disputation is the cause of hatred [and enmity].

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its profound implications in light of the Quran.

The word (shahna) "شَحْنَاءِ" in Arabic refers to intense hatred, animosity, or enmity. It is a deep-seated feeling of hostility that can arise between individuals or groups. The word (kathratu) "كَثْرَةُ" means abundance or excessive amount, indicating that an excessive amount of something leads to the emergence of (shahna) "شَحْنَاءِ".

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 peace 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 peace between them with justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts among believers. It encourages Muslims to seek reconciliation and peace, even in the face of disagreements. Excessive disputation, on the other hand, can lead to the escalation of conflicts and the development of deep-seated enmity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises the believers,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the negative consequences of excessive disputation. It warns that disputes can weaken the unity and strength of the believers. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to avoid engaging in excessive arguments and instead focus on obedience to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the detrimental effects of excessive disputation. When individuals or groups engage in constant arguments and disputes, it creates an atmosphere of hostility and animosity. This not only damages relationships but also hinders the progress and unity of the Muslim community.

Excessive disputation can lead to the breakdown of trust, the spread of rumors and false accusations, and the erosion of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims. It diverts attention from more important matters, such as seeking knowledge, practicing good deeds, and working together for the betterment of society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, understood the destructive nature of excessive disputation. He recognized that disputes, if not managed wisely and with moderation, can escalate into deep-rooted enmity and hatred. Therefore, he advised Muslims to exercise restraint and avoid engaging in unnecessary arguments.

Muslims should take this Hadith to heart and strive to maintain unity and harmony within the community. They should prioritize the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in resolving conflicts and disagreements. By doing so, they can foster an environment of love, understanding, and cooperation, which is essential for the growth and prosperity of the Muslim ummah.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the wisdom to avoid excessive disputation. May He bless us with unity, love, and peace among all Muslims. Ameen.