Hadith #10858

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Friendship for the sake of Allah is the more perfect of the two kinships.

This impactful saying emphasizes the significance and superiority of the bond of friendship that is based on the love and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their implications. The word (mawaddah) "مَوَدَّةُ" refers to friendship, love, and affection. It encompasses a deep emotional connection and a sincere desire for the well-being of the other person. The word (fi) "فِي" denotes the basis or foundation upon which this friendship is built. And finally, the word (Allah) "اللّهِ" signifies that the bond of friendship is established and maintained for the sake of Allah alone.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:103),

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers.

This verse highlights the importance of unity and brotherhood among Muslims, which is strengthened by the bond of friendship for the sake of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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

This verse emphasizes the unity and brotherhood among believers, which is further reinforced by the bond of friendship that is rooted in the love and fear of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the superiority of friendship for the sake of Allah over other forms of kinship. While blood relations are undoubtedly important, the bond of friendship for the sake of Allah surpasses them in terms of its purity, sincerity, and spiritual significance. This bond is not limited by familial ties or shared lineage, but rather it is based on the love and devotion to Allah.

When we establish and nurture friendships for the sake of Allah, we are motivated by a higher purpose. Our interactions and relationships are guided by the principles of Islam, such as kindness, compassion, and sincerity. We strive to support and uplift one another in our pursuit of righteousness and closeness to Allah.

This Hadith also reminds us of the profound consequences and rewards of such friendships. When we prioritize the pleasure of Allah in our relationships, we create an environment of love, harmony, and spiritual growth. Our friendships become a means of attaining closeness to Allah and seeking His pleasure. Moreover, the bond of friendship for the sake of Allah extends beyond the confines of this world and carries into the Hereafter, where it will be a source of immense joy and reward.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance and superiority of friendship for the sake of Allah. By establishing and nurturing such friendships, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and unity among Muslims. We are motivated by a higher purpose and strive to embody the teachings of Islam in our interactions. May Allah bless us with sincere friendships for His sake and enable us to be a source of support and goodness to one another.