Hadith #767

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of maintaining good companionship and avoiding unnecessary arguments. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (mumārātih) "مُماراتِهِ", which can be translated as "arguing" or "contention." This word implies engaging in heated debates or disputes, which can lead to discord and animosity among individuals. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that a true companion, with praiseworthy traits, does not seek to force or provoke arguments with others.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the guidance of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages Muslims to maintain peaceful and harmonious relationships with others. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 46, Allah says,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding disputes and maintaining patience in the face of disagreements.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 9, Allah says,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes in a just and fair manner, rather than engaging in arguments that can lead to further division.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaching also reminds us of the importance of maintaining a peaceful and respectful environment within our communities. The Quran emphasizes the value of unity and cooperation among Muslims. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 103, Allah says,

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.

By avoiding unnecessary arguments and disputes, we can foster an atmosphere of love, understanding, and unity within our communities. This not only strengthens our relationships with one another but also allows us to focus on the greater goals of worshiping Allah and spreading goodness in the world.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaching in this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize maintaining good companionship and avoiding unnecessary arguments. It encourages us to seek peace and harmony in our interactions with others, following the guidance of the Quran. By doing so, we can create a positive and nurturing environment that reflects the teachings of Islam and brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to be companions with praiseworthy traits and bless us with the ability to maintain peaceful relationships with one another.