Hadith #7721

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The correctness of action [and behaviour] beautifies a person.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of performing righteous deeds and displaying good behavior, as it has a positive impact on an individual's character and appearance.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their implications. The word (sawab) "صَوابُ" refers to correctness, righteousness, or the act of doing something in the right manner. It implies that one's actions should align with the teachings of Islam and be in accordance with the principles of justice, morality, and ethics.

The word (fi'l) "فِعْلِ" refers to action or deed. It encompasses all types of actions, whether they are physical, verbal, or even internal thoughts and intentions. Therefore, this Hadith reminds us that every action we undertake, regardless of its nature, has the potential to beautify or tarnish our character.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states 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 highlights that true nobility and beauty lie in righteousness and piety. It is not based on one's lineage, wealth, or physical appearance. Therefore, the correctness of our actions and behavior is what truly adorns us in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith 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 emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds and seeking the rewards of the Hereafter, while also fulfilling our responsibilities in this worldly life. It reminds us that our actions should be guided by the principles of goodness, justice, and avoiding corruption. By doing so, we beautify ourselves in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that our actions and behavior have a profound impact on our character and appearance. When we consistently engage in righteous deeds, such as performing acts of worship, showing kindness to others, and upholding moral values, we enhance our inner beauty and radiate goodness to those around us.

Conversely, engaging in sinful actions, such as lying, backbiting, or indulging in forbidden activities, tarnishes our character and diminishes our beauty. It is important to remember that our actions not only affect ourselves but also influence the perception of Islam and Muslims in the eyes of others.

Therefore, as Muslims, it is incumbent upon us to strive for excellence in our actions and behavior. By aligning our deeds with the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we can beautify our character and become true ambassadors of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to consistently perform righteous actions and adorn ourselves with the beauty of good behavior.