Hadith #4643

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 companions.

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

مَنْ لَمْ يَصُنْ وَجْهَهُ عَنْ مَسْألَتِكَ فَأكْرِمْ وَجْهَكَ عَنْ رَدِّهِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of protecting one's dignity and honor when someone asks for help or assistance. It advises us to preserve our own honor by not turning away those who seek our help, even if they may be in a position of need or vulnerability.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us examine the key words and their implications. The word (wajhahu) "وَجْهَهُ" refers to one's face or dignity, symbolizing a person's self-respect and honor. (mas'alatika) "مَسْألَتِكَ" means a request or plea for assistance. (akrim) "أكْرِمْ" means to honor or respect, while (raddihi) "رَدِّهِ" means to turn away or reject.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness, compassion, and generosity towards others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83:

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 help those in need and to treat them with kindness and respect. It reminds us that turning away from those who seek our assistance goes against the teachings of Islam. Similarly, in Surah Al-Ma'un, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) condemns those who neglect the basic needs of others, saying,

So woe to those who pray but are heedless of their prayer - those who make show [of their deeds] and withhold [simple] assistance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges us to protect our own dignity by responding to the requests of others with kindness and generosity. It encourages us to prioritize the preservation of our honor by not turning away those who come to us seeking help. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also uphold the values of compassion and empathy that Islam promotes.

This Hadith serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, both in this world and the hereafter. When we turn away someone in need, we not only deny them assistance but also risk tarnishing our own reputation and damaging our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). On the other hand, when we honor and respect those who seek our help, we not only uplift their spirits but also strengthen our own character and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to emulate the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom. He exemplified the teachings of the Quran by always prioritizing the needs of others and treating them with kindness and respect. By following his example, we can cultivate a society that is built on compassion, empathy, and mutual support.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of protecting our own dignity by responding to the requests of others with honor and respect. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the obligation to help those in need and treat them with kindness. By embodying these values in our actions, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in embodying these virtues and grant us the ability to preserve our honor by assisting those in need.