Hadith #771

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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.

In this profound hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

خَيرُ الإخوانِ أقَلُّهُمْ مُصانَعَةً في النَّصيحَةِ

which translates to

The best of brothers are the least hypocritical in giving good advice.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the key words in this hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, the word (brothers) "إخوان" refers to the believers, the Muslim ummah as a whole. It emphasizes the importance of unity and brotherhood among Muslims. This concept of brotherhood is beautifully highlighted in the Quran in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers.

This verse emphasizes the unity and mutual support that should exist among the believers.

Next, the word (hypocritical) "مُصانَعَةً" refers to insincerity or pretense in giving advice. It implies that the best of brothers are those who are genuine and sincere in their counsel, without any hidden agendas or ulterior motives. This aligns with the Quranic teachings on sincerity and honesty. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 3, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, those who lower their voices before the Messenger of Allah - they are the ones whose hearts Allah has tested for righteousness. For them is forgiveness and great reward.

This verse emphasizes the importance of sincerity in our actions and interactions, including giving advice.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of this hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that true brotherhood is not just about superficial gestures or empty words, but it is about genuinely caring for one another and providing sincere advice. The best of brothers are those who are selfless in their intentions, seeking the betterment of their fellow Muslims without any hidden agendas.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the importance of genuine advice in the Muslim community. Giving sincere advice is a form of worship and a means to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood. It is a reflection of our concern for the well-being and guidance of our fellow Muslims. The Quran emphasizes the importance of giving good advice in Surah Al-Asr, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse underscores the significance of advising one another towards truth and patience.

The consequences of following the guidance of this hadith are immense. When Muslims sincerely and selflessly advise one another, it leads to the strengthening of the Muslim community as a whole. It fosters an environment of trust, unity, and growth. Genuine advice helps individuals to rectify their mistakes, improve their character, and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also prevents misunderstandings and conflicts within the community, as sincere advice is given with the intention of rectification rather than causing harm or division.

In conclusion, this hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be genuine and sincere in their advice to one another. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness, honesty, and unity within the Muslim community. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions, we can strive to be the best of brothers, supporting and advising one another with sincerity and love. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the teachings of this hadith and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among Muslims.