Hadith #5224

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

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

مِنْ عَلاماتِ الشَّقاءِ الإسائَةُ إلَى الأخْيارِ۔

This can be translated as,

One of the signs of wretchedness is offending the virtuous.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (wretchedness) "شَّقاءِ" refers to a state of misery, unhappiness, and misfortune. It is a condition that distances one from the blessings and mercy of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Offending or harming the (virtuous) "أخْيارِ" refers to causing harm or injustice to those who are righteous, pious, and morally upright.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and fairness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

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.

This verse highlights the importance of refraining from ridiculing or insulting others, as it leads to wretchedness and disobedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Offending the virtuous not only harms the individuals being targeted but also reflects a lack of empathy, compassion, and understanding.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us to uphold justice and fairness in all our interactions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse reminds us that justice should prevail even if it goes against our personal biases or dislikes. Offending the virtuous contradicts the principles of justice and fairness, leading to a state of wretchedness and distance from righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the consequences of offending the virtuous. Such actions not only harm the individuals being targeted but also have broader implications. Offending the virtuous creates divisions within the Muslim community, weakens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, and hinders the collective progress of the ummah.

Moreover, offending the virtuous can lead to a loss of blessings and mercy from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The virtuous individuals who are harmed may be those who are close to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and have earned His favor. By offending them, one risks losing the blessings and protection that come with their proximity to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of treating the virtuous with respect, kindness, and fairness. Offending the virtuous not only leads to personal wretchedness but also undermines the unity and progress of the Muslim community. Let us strive to emulate the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) by upholding justice, showing kindness, and refraining from causing harm to the virtuous. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from wretchedness.