Hadith #9045

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.

In this profound and insightful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises us on three important qualities that we should embody as Muslims. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring the meanings of the key words and their implications in light of the Quran.

The first part of the Hadith states,

Never turn your face away disdainfully.

The word used here is (tuṣaʿʿiranna) "تُصَعِّرَنَّ", which means to show arrogance or contempt towards others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of treating others with respect and kindness. This is in line with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good character and forbids arrogance. 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.

This verse reminds us to refrain from looking down upon others and to treat everyone with dignity and respect.

The second part of the Hadith states,

Be courteous [to others].

The word used here is (alin) "ألِنْ", which means to be gentle, kind, and considerate towards others. This teaches us the importance of displaying good manners and etiquettes in our interactions with fellow Muslims and all people. The Quran encourages us to be kind and compassionate in Surah Al-Isra (17:23), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being courteous and respectful towards our parents, and by extension, towards all people.

The third part of the Hadith states,

Be humble in front of Allah, who has elevated you.

The word used here is (tawāḍaʿ) "تَواضَعْ", which means to be humble, modest, and submissive before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that despite any accomplishments or positions of honor we may have, we should always remain humble before our Creator. This is in line with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:23),

So that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse reminds us to be humble and not to boast about our achievements, recognizing that everything we have is ultimately from Allah's blessings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith is profound and comprehensive. By refraining from arrogance, displaying courtesy, and embodying humility, we can cultivate a society that is characterized by love, compassion, and unity. These qualities are not only pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but they also contribute to the well-being and harmony of the Muslim community.

Let us reflect upon this Hadith and strive to implement these teachings in our daily lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and may He elevate us in this world and the Hereafter.