Hadith #4360

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Many a distant one is closer than every near one.

This thought-provoking saying holds deep wisdom and can be understood by analyzing the important words used in the Arabic text.

The word (rubba) "رُبَّ" in this Hadith means "many" or "countless." It signifies the abundance and multitude of individuals who may be distant from us in terms of physical proximity or social connection. The word (ba'id) "بَعِيد" means "distant" or "far away," referring to those who are physically far from us or have little interaction with us. On the other hand, the word (aqrabu) "أَقْرَبُ" means "closer" or "nearer," indicating a close proximity or strong connection.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and unity among believers, regardless of their physical distance or social status. It teaches us that the bond of faith is stronger than any worldly connection.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:73), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And those who believed and emigrated and fought in the cause of Allah and those who gave shelter and aided - it is they who are the believers, truly. For them is forgiveness and noble provision.

This verse highlights the significance of those who migrate for the sake of Allah and those who provide assistance and support to the believers. It emphasizes that their actions make them closer to the believers, even if they are physically distant.

Based on these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is teaching us that the strength of our bond with others is not solely determined by physical proximity or social connections. Rather, it is the sincerity of faith, the support we provide to one another, and the unity we maintain as a community that truly brings us closer.

For example, a Muslim living in a distant land who actively supports and contributes to the welfare of the Muslim community can be considered closer to the believers than someone who is physically near but lacks such involvement. Similarly, a scholar or a knowledgeable person who guides and educates others in matters of faith can be closer to the believers, regardless of their physical location.

This Hadith also reminds us of the importance of valuing and nurturing relationships that transcend physical boundaries. It encourages us to prioritize spiritual connections and to seek out those who are distant from us in order to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood in Islam.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to actively engage with and support their fellow believers, even if they are physically distant. It encourages us to reach out, offer assistance, and provide comfort to those who may be in need, regardless of their geographical location.

The consequences of understanding and implementing this Hadith in our lives are manifold. It fosters a sense of unity and solidarity among Muslims, regardless of their backgrounds or locations. It encourages us to break down barriers and build bridges of understanding and compassion. It reminds us that our faith transcends physical boundaries and that we are all part of a global community.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to be among those who are closer to the believers, even if we are physically distant. We should actively seek opportunities to support and uplift our fellow Muslims, regardless of their location or social status. By doing so, we can strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood in Islam and fulfill our duty as believers.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the deeper meanings of His words and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May He enable us to embody the spirit of unity and brotherhood in our interactions with others, and may He unite the hearts of all Muslims, regardless of their physical distance.