Hadith #3514

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The cornerstone of wisdom is being amicable with the people.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations and treating others with kindness and respect. The word (mudaratun) "مُداراةُ" in Arabic refers to interacting with people in a gentle and friendly manner.

This concept of being amicable with others is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages believers to engage in acts of kindness and compassion towards their fellow human beings. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, Allah says,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of fostering harmonious relationships among believers and resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 53, Allah instructs Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to

Tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing our words wisely and speaking in a manner that promotes unity and understanding. It reminds us that our words have the power to either bring people together or drive them apart.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the significance of adopting a friendly and approachable attitude towards others. By doing so, we can build bridges of understanding and create an atmosphere of harmony and cooperation. When we treat people with kindness and respect, we not only enhance our own wisdom and character but also inspire others to do the same.

Being amicable with others has numerous benefits. It fosters a sense of community and belonging, strengthens social bonds, and promotes a peaceful coexistence. When we interact with people in a gentle and friendly manner, we create an environment where people feel valued and respected. This, in turn, encourages open communication, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas.

On the other hand, if we adopt an unfriendly or confrontational attitude, it can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and a breakdown of relationships. The Quran warns against such behavior and encourages us to strive for reconciliation and understanding. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 11, Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the values of kindness, compassion, and empathy in their interactions with others. It encourages us to prioritize building positive relationships and resolving conflicts through peaceful means. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as believers but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the cornerstone of wisdom lies in being amicable with the people. This concept aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and compassion. By adopting a friendly and approachable attitude, we can foster harmonious relationships, promote understanding, and contribute to a more peaceful and cohesive society. May Allah guide us all to embody these noble qualities in our interactions with others.