Hadith #2021

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 حَذَّرَكَ كَمَنْ بَشَّرَكَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who warns you is like the one who brings you glad tidings.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the important words used. The word (hazarak) "حَذَّرَكَ" means to warn, caution, or advise someone about potential dangers or harmful consequences. On the other hand, the word (basharak) "بَشَّرَكَ" means to bring glad tidings, good news, or to inform someone about something positive or beneficial.

This Hadith highlights the significance of receiving advice and warnings from others. It emphasizes that the one who warns you about potential harm or negative consequences is just as valuable as the one who brings you glad tidings of something positive. It reminds us that both forms of communication have their own importance and impact on our lives.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance and accepting advice from others. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (49:6)

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful

This verse encourages us to verify information and seek clarification before passing judgment or taking action, highlighting the importance of heeding warnings and advice.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (17:70)

And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference

This verse reminds us of the blessings and favors bestowed upon us by Allah, including the guidance and advice we receive from others. It encourages us to appreciate and value the warnings and advice given to us, as they are a means of protection and guidance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the importance of being receptive to advice and warnings, regardless of their nature. It teaches us that just as we appreciate good news and positive information, we should also value and heed warnings, as they can save us from harm and guide us towards the right path.

By valuing and accepting warnings, we can avoid potential pitfalls and negative consequences. For example, if someone warns us about the dangers of a particular action or behavior, we can reflect on their advice and make informed decisions. This can prevent us from falling into harmful habits or making regretful choices.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to cultivate a humble and open mindset. It reminds us that wisdom and knowledge can be found in various sources, including those who warn us. By being receptive to advice, we can benefit from the experiences and insights of others, expanding our own understanding and growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of valuing and heeding warnings, just as we appreciate good news and positive information. It reminds us to be receptive to advice and guidance, as they can protect us from harm and guide us towards the right path. By embracing warnings and advice, we can make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to accept and benefit from the warnings and advice of others.