Hadith #9169

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of two qualities that reflect the nobility of a person: cheerfulness and kindness. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (كَرَمِ) "karām" in Arabic refers to nobility, honor, and generosity. It encompasses the qualities that elevate a person's character and distinguish them from others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that one way to gauge a person's nobility is through their (بِشْرِهِ) "bushra", which can be translated as cheerfulness or a pleasant countenance. This refers to the state of being joyful, positive, and radiating happiness.

The Quranic teachings echo the importance of cheerfulness and its positive impact on individuals and society. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nur (24:35),

Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The example of His light is like a niche within which is a lamp, the lamp is within glass, the glass as if it were a pearly [white] star lit from [the oil of] a blessed olive tree, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil would almost glow even if untouched by fire. Light upon light. Allah guides to His light whom He wills. And Allah presents examples for the people, and Allah is Knowing of all things.

This verse highlights the metaphorical light that emanates from a person's heart when they possess inner joy and contentment.

Furthermore, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said in a Hadith,

Do not belittle any good deed, even meeting your brother with a cheerful face.

This Hadith emphasizes the significance of a cheerful countenance and its impact on interpersonal relationships. When we greet others with a smile and a positive attitude, we create an environment of warmth and kindness.

The second quality mentioned in the Hadith is (بِرِّهِ) "bir", which can be translated as kindness, goodness, or righteousness. It encompasses acts of benevolence, compassion, and generosity towards others. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness and encourages Muslims to embody this virtue. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true nobility lies in treating others with kindness and compassion. When we extend our kindness to those in need, we not only fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings but also earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of cheerfulness and kindness as qualities that reflect the nobility of a person. These qualities are not only praised by the Ahl al-Bayt but are also emphasized in the Quran. By embodying cheerfulness and kindness, we not only uplift our own spirits but also spread positivity and create a harmonious society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate these qualities within ourselves and become a source of joy and kindness for others.