Hadith #898

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The best of etiquettes is that which stops you from what is forbidden.

This enlightening saying emphasizes the importance of adhering to the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and refraining from engaging in any actions that are prohibited in Islam.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The word "ahsan" translates to "best" or "excellent," indicating that there are various levels of etiquettes, but the highest level is the one that prevents us from indulging in what is forbidden. The term "adab" refers to manners, conduct, or etiquette, which encompasses both our actions and speech. It encompasses all aspects of our lives, including our interactions with Allah, ourselves, and others.

The phrase "ma kaffaka" can be translated as

that which stops you

or

that which prevents you.

It implies that the best etiquettes are those that act as a barrier, preventing us from crossing the boundaries of what is forbidden. This highlights the importance of self-restraint and self-discipline in Islam.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:33),

Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed - and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.'

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of immoralities, sins, oppression, and associating partners with Allah. It serves as a reminder that the best etiquettes are those that prevent us from engaging in any of these forbidden acts. By adhering to these boundaries set by Allah, we demonstrate our obedience and submission to His commandments.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:32), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse highlights the importance of refraining from engaging in unlawful sexual acts. It serves as a reminder that the best etiquettes are those that prevent us from approaching any form of immorality. By abstaining from such actions, we preserve our purity and protect ourselves from the harmful consequences that accompany them.

Reflecting on the impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we realize that the best etiquettes are not merely about external appearances or superficial politeness. Instead, they encompass a deep sense of consciousness and awareness of Allah's commandments. They require us to constantly evaluate our actions and ensure that we do not transgress the boundaries of what is permissible.

By embodying the best etiquettes, we develop a strong moral compass that guides us towards righteousness. We become individuals who are mindful of our words and actions, seeking to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of our lives. This, in turn, leads to a harmonious society where individuals respect one another's rights and refrain from engaging in harmful behaviors.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best etiquettes are those that prevent us from what is forbidden in Islam. It emphasizes the importance of self-restraint and self-discipline, as well as the need to adhere to the boundaries set by Allah. By embodying these etiquettes, we strive to become individuals who are conscious of our actions and seek to please Allah in all aspects of our lives. May Allah grant us the ability to embody the best etiquettes and protect us from what is forbidden.