Hadith #6688

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Showing enmity towards the people is a trait of the ignorant ones.

This Hadith highlights the negative characteristic of harboring enmity towards others and emphasizes that such behavior is a sign of ignorance.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications. The word (mu'adātu) "مُعَادَاةُ" refers to showing enmity or hostility towards someone. It encompasses actions, words, and attitudes that are driven by ill-will and animosity. The word (ar-rijāli) "الرِّجَالِ" refers to people in general, encompassing both men and women. Finally, the word (shiyami) "شِيَمِ" denotes a trait or characteristic.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 11, Allah says,

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 highlights the prohibition of ridiculing and insulting others, regardless of their gender or background. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the inherent worth and potential goodness in every individual. By showing enmity towards others, we are disregarding this divine command and falling into the trap of ignorance.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us to promote unity and harmony among people. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, Allah says,

Indeed, the believers are brothers. So make peace between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the brotherhood and sisterhood of believers, urging us to reconcile differences and establish peace among ourselves. By harboring enmity, we are contradicting this fundamental principle of Islam and perpetuating division and discord.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the significance of avoiding enmity towards others. He reminds us that such behavior is characteristic of the ignorant ones. By showing enmity, we are displaying a lack of understanding, empathy, and wisdom. We are failing to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of their beliefs, backgrounds, or actions.

The consequences of harboring enmity towards others are far-reaching. It breeds animosity, hatred, and conflict, leading to the disintegration of families, communities, and societies. It hinders progress, cooperation, and mutual understanding. On the other hand, embracing kindness, compassion, and respect towards others fosters unity, peace, and prosperity. It allows for the growth of individuals and communities, and it strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we should strive to embody the teachings of the Quran and the example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). We should actively work towards eliminating enmity from our hearts and replacing it with love, understanding, and forgiveness. We should seek to build bridges of friendship and cooperation with our fellow Muslims and with people of other faiths. By doing so, we can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society, in line with the teachings of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to embody the noble qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his Ahl al-Bayt, and his companions. May He grant us the wisdom to recognize the dangers of enmity and the strength to overcome it. Ameen.