Hadith #9061

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

ما تَكَبَّرَ إلاّ وَضيعٌ۔

This can be translated into English as,

None is arrogant except the vile.

In order to fully understand the profound wisdom behind this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used in this Hadith.

The word (takabbara) "تَكَبَّرَ" is derived from the root word (kabara) "كَبَرَ", which means to be arrogant or to display pride. Arrogance is a state of inflated self-importance and a sense of superiority over others. It is a negative trait that distances individuals from humility and righteousness.

The word (wadīʿ) "وَضيعٌ" is derived from the root word (ḍawā) "ضَوَىٰ", which means to be lowly, despicable, or vile. It refers to someone who lacks honor, dignity, and moral integrity.

To further comprehend the wisdom of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against arrogance in several verses. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 37, Allah says,

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth apart, and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse emphasizes the futility of arrogance and reminds us that no matter how high we perceive ourselves, we are ultimately limited by our human nature.

Additionally, in Surah Luqman, verse 18, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse highlights the displeasure of Allah towards those who display arrogance and look down upon others.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. He states that none can be truly arrogant except those who are vile. This implies that true arrogance stems from a lack of moral character and integrity. It is not a trait of the noble and righteous individuals. The truly honorable are those who possess humility, kindness, and compassion towards others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that arrogance is a manifestation of one's inner vileness. When a person is filled with pride and considers themselves superior to others, they are distancing themselves from the path of righteousness and humility. Such individuals fail to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every human being, which is a fundamental principle in Islam.

Arrogance has severe consequences both in this world and the Hereafter. It leads to the deterioration of relationships, the oppression of others, and the neglect of one's own spiritual growth. It blinds individuals to their own faults and prevents them from seeking forgiveness and guidance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Ultimately, arrogance hinders one's journey towards self-improvement and the attainment of true success.

As Muslims, we are reminded to constantly strive for humility and to guard ourselves against the destructive trait of arrogance. We should seek inspiration from the noble qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who exemplified the epitome of humility and kindness towards all. By emulating his character and following the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt, we can purify our hearts from arrogance and cultivate a spirit of humility, compassion, and love for our fellow human beings.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the vice of arrogance and grant us the wisdom to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals. May we strive to be among the humble and righteous, seeking Allah's pleasure in this world and the Hereafter.