Hadith #4766

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Dismissal with kindness is one of the two reliefs.

This Hadith highlights the importance of treating others with kindness and compassion, especially when it comes to dismissing or letting go of someone or something.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. "Husn" refers to goodness, beauty, or excellence. "Sarāh" means dismissal or letting go. "Ithnayn" signifies two.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:263),

Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. And Allah is Free of need and Forbearing.

This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking kindly and forgiving others, as it is superior to giving charity while harboring ill feelings or causing harm. It highlights the significance of dismissing others with kindness, as it leads to a positive and harmonious environment.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to say,

Tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse reminds us to choose our words wisely and speak in the best manner, as Satan seeks to create division and discord among people. By dismissing others with kindness, we not only follow the teachings of the Quran but also protect ourselves from the influence of Satan.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to adopt a compassionate and gentle approach when dismissing or letting go of someone or something. It reminds us that our actions should be guided by kindness, empathy, and understanding.

When we dismiss someone with kindness, we demonstrate respect for their feelings and dignity. We avoid causing unnecessary pain or humiliation, and instead, strive to maintain a positive relationship, even if it is no longer possible to continue the association.

This approach has far-reaching consequences. It fosters an atmosphere of goodwill and mutual respect, allowing for the possibility of reconciliation and healing. It also reflects positively on our character and strengthens our relationships with others.

For example, if a person is no longer suitable for a particular job or role, dismissing them with kindness means providing constructive feedback and support, rather than simply severing ties abruptly. This not only preserves their self-esteem but also allows them to learn and grow from the experience.

Similarly, in personal relationships, dismissing someone with kindness means ending the relationship in a compassionate and considerate manner. It involves communicating openly, expressing gratitude for the shared experiences, and wishing them well in their future endeavors.

By following the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith, we cultivate a culture of empathy, understanding, and forgiveness within our communities. We create an environment where individuals feel valued and respected, even in moments of dismissal or separation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of dismissing others with kindness. It encourages us to treat others with compassion and respect, even when parting ways or letting go. By doing so, we uphold the teachings of the Quran and contribute to a more harmonious and loving society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement this noble teaching in our lives.