Hadith #796

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

علَى التَّواخي في اللّهِ تَخْلُصُ المَحَبَّةُ۔

This can be translated as,

It is through brotherhood for the sake of Allah that love becomes sincere.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of genuine love and affection among Muslims, which can only be achieved through sincere brotherhood for the sake of Allah.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us explore the key words and concepts within it. The word (tawākhī) "تَوَاخِي" refers to brotherhood or the bond of brotherly love. It signifies a deep connection and affection between individuals who share a common faith and purpose. The word (takhluṣu) "تَخْلُصُ" means sincerity or purity. It implies that love, when rooted in genuine brotherhood for the sake of Allah, becomes free from any ulterior motives or selfish interests.

This Hadith resonates with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and brotherhood among Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10),

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the unity and brotherhood that should exist among Muslims, and how it is a means to attain Allah's mercy.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:103), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.

This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and cohesion among Muslims, as they are urged to hold onto the teachings and guidance of Allah collectively. This unity can only be achieved through sincere brotherhood, as mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

When Muslims establish brotherhood for the sake of Allah, their love for one another becomes pure and sincere. It transcends worldly desires and selfish interests, as their bond is rooted in faith and devotion to Allah. This love is not limited to mere words or superficial gestures, but it manifests in actions and sacrifices for the sake of Allah and the well-being of fellow Muslims.

For example, when Muslims come together to support and assist one another during times of hardship, their love becomes evident. They selflessly offer their time, resources, and support to alleviate the suffering of their brothers and sisters in faith. This genuine love and brotherhood strengthen the Muslim community, fostering a sense of unity, compassion, and solidarity.

Conversely, when brotherhood is lacking or insincere, divisions and conflicts arise within the Muslim community. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against such divisions in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46),

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that genuine love and affection among Muslims can only be achieved through sincere brotherhood for the sake of Allah. This love is pure, selfless, and free from any ulterior motives. It is rooted in faith and devotion to Allah, and it strengthens the unity and cohesion of the Muslim community. By establishing and nurturing this brotherhood, Muslims can manifest the true essence of love and experience the blessings and mercy of Allah. May Allah guide us all to embody this profound teaching and strengthen our bonds of brotherhood for His sake.