Hadith #2499

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 noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Do not help [anyone] against the one who has favoured you, for the one who helps against the one who has favoured him is stripped of his ability.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of gratitude and loyalty towards those who have shown us kindness and favor.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (an'amah) "أنْعَمَ" refers to someone who has bestowed favors or blessings upon us. It encompasses acts of kindness, generosity, and any form of goodness that has been shown to us. The word ('alayka) "عَلَيْكَ" signifies that these favors have been directed towards us personally.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us not to help or support anyone who goes against the person who has shown us favor. This guidance is rooted in the principle of gratitude and loyalty. By refraining from aiding those who oppose our benefactors, we demonstrate our appreciation for the favors bestowed upon us.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 17:23)

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse highlights the importance of showing gratitude and respect to our parents, who have undoubtedly shown us immense favor and kindness throughout our lives. It teaches us that we should not only refrain from helping anyone who goes against our benefactors but also treat them with utmost respect and kindness.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Balad, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 90:11)

And as for the favor of your Lord, report [it].

This verse emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and reporting the favors bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that we should not only be grateful to those who have shown us favor but also express our gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for His countless blessings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) guidance in this Hadith encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions. By helping someone who opposes our benefactors, we not only betray the trust and loyalty placed in us but also risk losing our own abilities and blessings. This serves as a powerful reminder that our actions have consequences, and we should be mindful of the impact they may have on our relationships and blessings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of gratitude and loyalty towards those who have shown us favor. It urges us to refrain from supporting anyone who goes against our benefactors, as this not only betrays their kindness but also jeopardizes our own blessings. By reflecting on this guidance and implementing it in our lives, we can cultivate a sense of gratitude and loyalty that strengthens our relationships and brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to appreciate and reciprocate the favors bestowed upon us.