Hadith #7869

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and upon his righteous companions.

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

Loyalty is the symbol of abundant religiosity and strong trustworthiness.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of loyalty and trustworthiness in the religion of Islam. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (وَفَاء) "wafa" in Arabic, translated as "loyalty," carries a connotation. It refers to fulfilling one's commitments, being true to one's word, and remaining steadfast in fulfilling obligations. Loyalty is not merely a superficial act; it is a reflection of one's inner faith and devotion. The Quran emphasizes the importance of fulfilling promises and being loyal in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 1: (5:1)

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts

This verse highlights the significance of loyalty in Islam and the need to honor our commitments.

The word (عُنْوَانُ) "unwan" in Arabic, translated as "symbol," signifies a visible representation or a mark that indicates something. In this Hadith, loyalty is described as the symbol of abundant religiosity. This implies that loyalty is not only a virtue in itself but also serves as an indicator of one's strong faith and devotion to Allah. The Quran supports this notion in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10: (49:10)

Indeed, the believers are brothers

This verse emphasizes the importance of loyalty and brotherhood among Muslims, as it is a reflection of their faith.

The word (وُفُورِ) "wufur" in Arabic, translated as "abundant," denotes a state of abundance or plentifulness. In this Hadith, it is used to describe the religiosity that is symbolized by loyalty. This implies that a person who is loyal in their relationships and commitments is someone who possesses a deep and abundant religiosity. The Quran supports this concept in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177: (2:177)

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah

This verse emphasizes that true righteousness lies in one's faith and devotion to Allah, which is reflected in their actions, including loyalty.

The word (قُوَّةِ) "quwwah" in Arabic, translated as "strong," refers to strength or power. In this Hadith, it is used to describe the trustworthiness that is associated with loyalty. Trustworthiness is a quality that requires strength and integrity, as it involves being reliable, honest, and sincere in fulfilling one's responsibilities. The Quran emphasizes the importance of trustworthiness in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8: (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

This verse highlights the need for Muslims to be trustworthy and just in their dealings, even in the face of adversity.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that loyalty and trustworthiness are not only essential virtues in Islam but also serve as indicators of a person's religiosity and faith. A person who is loyal and trustworthy in their relationships and commitments demonstrates their strong devotion to Allah and their adherence to the principles of Islam. Such individuals are reliable and dependable, and their actions are a reflection of their inner faith. By embodying loyalty and trustworthiness, Muslims can strengthen their relationships, build a harmonious society, and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to be loyal and trustworthy individuals, and may He grant us the strength to fulfill our commitments and obligations. Ameen.