Hadith #11041

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

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

مَنْ لَمْ يَتَّعِظْ بِالنّاسِ وَعَظَ اللّهُ النّاسَ بِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever does not take lesson from [what happens to] the people, Allah makes an example out of him for the people.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (tata'az) "تَتَعَظْ" in the Hadith means to take admonition or learn a lesson. It implies that one should observe the experiences and circumstances of others and derive wisdom from them. By doing so, we can avoid the mistakes and pitfalls that others have faced and make better choices in our own lives.

This concept of learning from the experiences of others is emphasized in the Quran as well. In Surah Al-Mumtahanah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 60:6)

There has certainly been for you in them an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day

This verse highlights the importance of looking at the examples of those who came before us, as they can serve as a source of guidance and inspiration.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hashr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 59:9)

And [also for] those who were settled in the home [i.e., the Muslims of Medina] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful

This verse highlights the virtue of selflessness and generosity, as exemplified by the Ansar (the residents of Medina) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Mecca).

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. He reminds us that if we do not learn from the experiences of others, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will make us an example for others. This means that if we fail to take heed from the mistakes and lessons of those around us, we may find ourselves facing similar challenges and consequences.

For instance, if we observe someone who consistently makes poor financial decisions and suffers the consequences of debt and financial instability, we should learn from their mistakes and strive to make wise financial choices. By doing so, we can avoid falling into the same predicament and secure a stable financial future.

Similarly, if we witness the negative effects of harmful habits or addictions on the lives of others, we should take it as a lesson and strive to avoid such destructive behaviors. By learning from their experiences, we can protect ourselves from the physical, emotional, and spiritual harm that these habits can bring.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for us to be observant and attentive to the experiences of those around us. It encourages us to seek wisdom and guidance from the examples of others, both positive and negative. By doing so, we can make informed choices, avoid unnecessary hardships, and strive for success in this life and the Hereafter.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of learning from the experiences of others. It urges us to take admonition from the circumstances and choices of those around us, so that we may avoid repeating their mistakes and benefit from their successes. By doing so, we can navigate through life with wisdom and make choices that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to learn from the examples of others and guide us on the path of righteousness.