Hadith #9615

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ لانَتْ عَريكَتُهُ وَجَبَتْ مَحَبَّتُهُ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of having a gentle and kind nature, as it leads to the inevitable love and affection of others towards the person possessing such qualities.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (lanat) "لانَتْ" refers to the inherent disposition or nature of an individual. It encompasses their character, temperament, and behavior. It is the essence of who they are as a person. The word (ariqatu) "عَريكَتُهُ" means gentleness, tenderness, or softness. It signifies a compassionate and caring attitude towards others. Lastly, the word (mahabbatuhu) "مَحَبَّتُهُ" translates to love or affection.

To comprehend the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of recognizing and appreciating the diversity among people. It emphasizes that the true measure of nobility lies in righteousness and piety.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith complements this Quranic verse by emphasizing the significance of a gentle nature. When a person possesses a gentle disposition, they are more likely to treat others with kindness, respect, and empathy. This fosters a sense of unity and harmony within society, as people are drawn towards those who exhibit such qualities.

Furthermore, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion towards others. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the obligation to treat others with kindness and goodness. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships with family, relatives, and the wider community. By embodying a gentle nature, one fulfills this obligation and becomes a source of love and affection for others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate a gentle and compassionate nature. When we interact with others in a gentle manner, we create an environment of love and harmony. Our actions have a ripple effect, influencing those around us to reciprocate the same kindness and love.

Moreover, possessing a gentle nature has far-reaching consequences. It not only enhances our relationships with others but also strengthens our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). In Surah Al-Isra (17:24), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse advises us to be moderate in our actions and not to be excessive or miserly. By embodying a gentle nature, we strike a balance in our interactions, avoiding extremes and cultivating a sense of moderation. This moderation is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and leads to His love and mercy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of possessing a gentle nature. By embodying kindness, compassion, and tenderness towards others, we create an atmosphere of love and affection. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the significance of treating others with goodness and maintaining harmonious relationships. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate a gentle nature and become a source of love and compassion for others.