Hadith #5115

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,

Man admarash-sharra li ghayrihi faqad bada'a bihi nafsahu.

This Hadith highlights the consequences of harboring ill will and evil feelings towards others. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the important words in this Hadith.

The word "admarash-sharra" refers to harboring or concealing evil feelings or ill will towards someone. It implies keeping these negative emotions within oneself, without expressing them outwardly. The word "li ghayrihi" means towards others, indicating that these feelings are directed at someone other than oneself. Finally,

faqad bada'a bihi nafsahu

translates to

has actually harmed himself.

This phrase emphasizes that the person who holds such negative feelings is inflicting harm upon their own soul.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining good character and avoiding ill will towards others. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 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 teaches us the importance of refraining from ridiculing, insulting, or harboring ill will towards others. It reminds us that we should not judge others based on our own limited understanding, as they may be better than us in the sight of Allah. By harboring ill will, we not only harm our relationships with others but also damage our own spiritual well-being.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hashr, where Allah says, (Quran 59:10)

And those who came after them say, 'Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith and put not in our hearts [any] resentment toward those who have believed. Our Lord, indeed You are Kind and Merciful'

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and purifying our hearts from any resentment towards fellow believers. It encourages us to let go of negative feelings and replace them with kindness and mercy.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we can see that harboring ill will towards others not only damages our relationships but also has negative consequences for our own spiritual growth. When we hold onto negative emotions, it consumes our thoughts, affects our mental well-being, and hinders our ability to develop a strong connection with Allah. It creates a barrier between us and the mercy of Allah, preventing us from experiencing true peace and tranquility.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of purifying our hearts and nurturing positive feelings towards others. By letting go of ill will and replacing it with love, forgiveness, and compassion, we not only benefit our own souls but also contribute to a harmonious and peaceful society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to refrain from harboring ill will and negative feelings towards others. It teaches us the importance of purifying our hearts and nurturing positive emotions. By doing so, we not only protect our own spiritual well-being but also contribute to the establishment of a righteous and compassionate community. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt and grant us the strength to overcome negative emotions and cultivate love and mercy in our hearts.