Hadith #8048

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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 three key actions: acting with goodness, forbidding evil, and shunning the trait of treachery. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, the word (one who acts) "عامِلاً" implies that a Muslim should not be passive or indifferent, but rather actively engage in performing good deeds. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that encourage believers to strive in the path of righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:148):

So race to [all that is] good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of actively pursuing good deeds and competing in acts of righteousness.

Secondly, the phrase (with goodness) "بِالخَيْرِ" highlights the quality of the actions that a Muslim should engage in. It implies that our deeds should be characterized by kindness, compassion, and sincerity. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds and treating others with kindness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195):

And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) loves those who perform good deeds and encourages us to follow this path.

Thirdly, the phrase (forbidding evil) "ناهِياً عَنِ الشَّرِّ" emphasizes the duty of Muslims to actively discourage and prevent evil actions. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that encourage believers to enjoin what is good and forbid what is evil. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:157):

Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and forbids them what is wrong.

This verse highlights the role of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in guiding the believers towards righteousness and forbidding them from engaging in evil.

Lastly, the phrase (shunning the trait of treachery) "مُنْكِراً شيمَةَ الغَدْرِ" emphasizes the importance of honesty, trustworthiness, and loyalty. The Quranic teachings emphasize the significance of these qualities in building strong and harmonious societies. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8):

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

This verse reminds us of the importance of justice and fairness, and it encourages us to uphold these values in all aspects of our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively engage in performing good deeds, forbidding evil, and shunning treachery. These actions are in line with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of righteousness, kindness, justice, and loyalty. By embodying these qualities, Muslims can contribute to the betterment of society and strive towards attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of goodness and righteousness.