Hadith #6512

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

ما أضَرَّ المَحاسِنَ كَالعُجْبِ۔

This can be translated as,

Nothing damages [one’s] merits [and good deeds] like conceit.

In this wise utterance, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of arrogance and pride.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words. (ma adarra) "ما أضَرَّ" means "nothing damages" or "nothing harms." (al-mahasin) "المَحاسِنَ" refers to "merits" or "good deeds." And (al-'ujb) "العُجْبِ" can be translated as "conceit" or "arrogance."

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of humility and warn against the dangers of arrogance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

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 reminds us that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety, not in worldly status or wealth. It is a clear message that our worth is determined by our actions and character, not by our outward appearance or achievements. Arrogance blinds us to this truth and leads us to belittle others based on superficial criteria.

Another verse that sheds light on the destructive nature of arrogance is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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.'

The story of Qarun serves as a cautionary tale against arrogance and pride. Despite his immense wealth and power, Qarun's arrogance led to his downfall. His people warned him against boasting about his possessions, as it displeased Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This example highlights the detrimental effects of conceit on one's character and the consequences it can have in this world and the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement echoes the teachings of the Quran, emphasizing the destructive nature of arrogance. When one becomes conceited, they become blind to their own faults and overestimate their own worth. This leads to a sense of superiority and a disregard for the rights and feelings of others. It hinders personal growth and prevents one from recognizing their own shortcomings and seeking improvement.

Conceit also damages one's good deeds by corrupting their intentions. When a person becomes arrogant, their actions are no longer driven by sincerity and humility. Instead, they seek validation and praise from others, diluting the purity of their intentions. This diminishes the reward and blessings that would have otherwise been attained from their good deeds.

Furthermore, arrogance creates division and discord among people. It breeds a sense of entitlement and superiority, leading to the mistreatment and oppression of others. This contradicts the teachings of Islam, which emphasize unity, equality, and compassion towards all. Arrogance not only harms the individual but also damages the fabric of society, hindering progress and harmony.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to guard against the destructive nature of conceit. It highlights the importance of humility, sincerity, and self-reflection in our actions and interactions. By recognizing the dangers of arrogance and striving to cultivate humility, we can protect our good deeds, foster unity, and attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the harms of arrogance.