Hadith #1730

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

الجمال الباطن حسن السريرة

which translates to

Internal beauty is [in possessing] a good heart.

This beautiful saying emphasizes the significance of inner beauty and the importance of having a virtuous character.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (al-jamal) "الجمال" refers to beauty, while (al-batin) "الباطن" means internal or inner. (hasan) "حسن" denotes goodness or excellence, and (al-sirrah) "السريرة" refers to one's character or conduct.

The Quran provides numerous verses that highlight the significance of inner beauty and the importance of having a good heart. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety, which are qualities of the heart. It is not one's external appearance or worldly possessions that determine their worth, but rather their inner character and moral conduct.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse encourages Muslims to strive for the Hereafter while also fulfilling their responsibilities in this world. It emphasizes the importance of doing good deeds, which are a reflection of one's internal beauty and character. It is through acts of kindness, compassion, and righteousness that one truly beautifies their heart.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to focus on cultivating their inner beauty and nurturing a good heart. It teaches us that true beauty lies in the purity of our intentions, the sincerity of our actions, and the goodness of our character.

Possessing a good heart not only brings inner peace and contentment but also has far-reaching consequences in our interactions with others and our overall impact on society. When we embody qualities such as kindness, empathy, and integrity, we become a source of inspiration and guidance for those around us.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified the teachings of this Hadith throughout his life. His character was marked by humility, justice, and compassion, making him a role model for Muslims of all generations.

As Muslims, we should strive to emulate the example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and focus on developing our inner beauty. By purifying our hearts, we can attain a state of spiritual excellence and draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us remember that true beauty is not merely external adornment but lies in the goodness of our hearts and the righteousness of our actions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on this path of inner beauty and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.