Hadith #9022

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "Al-Kibru sharrul 'uyub." This translates to

Arrogance is the worst of faults.

In this enlightening saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the gravity and detrimental nature of arrogance.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "Al-Kibr" refers to arrogance, pride, or haughtiness. It is a state of considering oneself superior to others, belittling them, and refusing to acknowledge one's own shortcomings. "Sharrul" means the worst or most evil, indicating the severity of this fault. And "uyub" refers to faults, flaws, or imperfections.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the condemnation of arrogance and its dire consequences. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Luqman (31:18),

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 clearly admonishes against the attitude of arrogance and highlights Allah's displeasure towards those who display such behavior.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse recounts the story of Qarun, who was blessed with immense wealth but became arrogant and oppressive. Allah explicitly mentions that He does not favor those who exult in their worldly possessions and display arrogance.

The consequences of arrogance are severe and far-reaching. Arrogance distances individuals from the path of righteousness and hinders their spiritual growth. It blinds them to their own faults and prevents them from seeking improvement. Arrogance also breeds animosity and discord among people, as it creates a sense of superiority and disdain towards others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, understood the destructive nature of arrogance. He recognized that it is a fault that corrupts the soul and leads to various other vices. By highlighting the severity of arrogance, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to cultivate humility, modesty, and self-awareness.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we should strive to eradicate any traces of arrogance within ourselves. We must recognize that true greatness lies in humility and acknowledging our own limitations. By humbling ourselves before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can attain His pleasure and the respect of our fellow Muslims. Let us remember the words of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to embody the virtues of humility and selflessness in our daily lives. May Allah protect us from the evil of arrogance and guide us on the path of righteousness.