Hadith #3122

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One of the indications of being forsaken by Allah is taking the rights of [one’s] brothers lightly.

This Hadith highlights the importance of treating others with fairness and justice, particularly in regards to the rights of our fellow Muslims.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (istihana) "اِسْتِهانَةُ" refers to the act of belittling or underestimating something. It signifies the attitude of not giving due importance or regard to the rights of others. The word (huquq) "حُقُوقِ" means rights, which encompasses the various obligations and entitlements that individuals have towards one another.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the rights of others and treating them with fairness and justice. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (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

This verse highlights the prohibition of belittling or mocking others, as it undermines the rights and dignity of individuals. It reminds us that we should not underestimate or demean others, as they may possess qualities and virtues that we are unaware of. By taking the rights of our brothers and sisters lightly, we risk falling into the trap of arrogance and disregard for the sanctity of human relationships.

Another verse that sheds light on the importance of upholding the rights of others is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, where Allah says, (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 emphasizes the obligation of Muslims to be just and fair in all their dealings, regardless of personal biases or animosities. It reminds us that our duty is to uphold justice, even if it means going against our own desires or interests. By neglecting the rights of others, we not only betray the trust placed upon us by Allah, but we also distance ourselves from His mercy and blessings.

The consequences of taking the rights of our brothers lightly are severe. It is a sign of being forsaken by Allah, as mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). When we fail to fulfill the rights of others, we create an imbalance in society and disrupt the harmony that Allah has ordained. This can lead to animosity, resentment, and the breakdown of relationships within the Muslim community.

On the other hand, when we uphold the rights of our brothers and sisters, we contribute to the well-being and unity of the ummah. By treating others with fairness and justice, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and create an environment of love, compassion, and mutual respect. This not only pleases Allah, but it also fosters a sense of unity and solidarity among Muslims.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we should strive to be conscious of the rights of others and avoid underestimating or belittling them. We must recognize that every individual has rights that deserve to be respected and fulfilled. By doing so, we can ensure that we are not forsaken by Allah and that we contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society.

May Allah guide us all to uphold the rights of our brothers and sisters and grant us the ability to treat others with fairness, justice, and respect. Ameen.