Hadith #1513

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 family, his noble companions, and all the righteous Muslims.

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

مَنْ كَثُرَ بِرُّهُ حُمِدَ۔

which translates to

One whose righteousness increases is praised.

This concise statement holds deep wisdom and guidance for all Muslims seeking to enhance their spirituality and draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (birruhu) "بِرُّهُ" refers to righteousness, which encompasses acts of obedience, piety, and moral excellence. It is the state of being upright and adhering to the commands of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (humida) "حُمِدَ" means to be praised or commended. It signifies the recognition and appreciation of one's virtuous actions by others.

To understand the significance of increasing in righteousness and the subsequent praise, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's assistance in maintaining steadfastness in righteousness throughout our lives.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the significance of increasing in righteousness in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:148),

For each [religious following] is a direction toward which it faces. So race to [all that is] good. Wherever you may be, Allah will bring you forth [for judgement] all together. Indeed, Allah is over all things competent.

This verse encourages Muslims to compete in performing good deeds and striving for righteousness, regardless of their geographical location or circumstances.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that as our righteousness increases, we become worthy of praise and commendation from others. This praise serves as a motivation to continue on the path of righteousness and encourages others to follow suit. When our actions align with the teachings of Islam and reflect the values of justice, compassion, and integrity, we become beacons of guidance for those around us.

For example, if a person consistently displays kindness and generosity towards others, their righteous behavior will be recognized and appreciated by those who witness it. This recognition can inspire others to emulate similar acts of kindness, creating a ripple effect of righteousness within the community.

Conversely, if a person's righteousness decreases or remains stagnant, they may not receive the same level of praise and commendation. This serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly strive for self-improvement and to seek ways to increase their acts of worship and good deeds. By doing so, they not only earn the praise of others but also the pleasure and reward of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that increasing in righteousness leads to praise and commendation. This serves as a motivation for Muslims to continuously strive for self-improvement and to seek ways to enhance their acts of worship and good deeds. By doing so, we not only earn the recognition and appreciation of others but also draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and attain His pleasure. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to increase in our acts of worship.