Hadith #6645

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

عِلَّةُ المُعاداةِ قِلَّةُ المُبالاتِ۔

This can be translated as:

The cause of enmity is lack of empathy [and consideration for others].

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of empathy and consideration in fostering harmonious relationships and preventing conflicts.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (illatu) "عِلَّةُ" refers to the cause or reason behind something. In this context, it refers to the root cause of enmity or hostility. The word (mu'adāh) "مُعاداةِ" means enmity or animosity. It signifies a state of deep-seated hostility towards someone. The word (qillatu) "قِلَّةُ" means lack or scarcity. Finally, the word (mubālāt) "مُبالاتِ" refers to empathy or consideration for others.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of empathy and consideration in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), 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.

This verse encourages Muslims to refrain from mocking or belittling others, as it can lead to enmity and discord. Instead, it urges us to recognize the inherent worth and potential goodness in every individual.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:70), Allah reminds us,

And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse highlights the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. It calls upon us to treat others with empathy and consideration, recognizing their rights and treating them with kindness and respect.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in this Hadith reflects the teachings of the Quran. Lack of empathy and consideration for others can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and ultimately, enmity. When we fail to understand or acknowledge the feelings, perspectives, and needs of others, we create a breeding ground for hostility and animosity.

For instance, imagine a situation where two individuals have a disagreement. If they approach the situation with empathy and consideration, they would be willing to listen to each other's viewpoints, understand each other's concerns, and work towards a mutually beneficial resolution. However, if they lack empathy and consideration, they may dismiss each other's opinions, refuse to listen, and become entrenched in their positions. This can lead to bitterness, resentment, and ultimately, enmity between them.

On a broader scale, this Hadith reminds us of the importance of empathy and consideration in building harmonious societies. When we genuinely care about the well-being of others, we are more likely to work towards creating inclusive and just communities. We become more sensitive to the struggles and challenges faced by others, and we strive to alleviate their suffering and promote their welfare.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the profound connection between empathy, consideration, and the prevention of enmity. By recognizing the importance of empathy and consideration in our interactions with others, we can foster understanding, harmony, and peace. Let us strive to embody these qualities in our daily lives, following the teachings of the Quran and the noble example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May Allah guide us all on the path of empathy and consideration, and may He grant us the wisdom to prevent enmity and promote unity among Muslims.