Hadith #8175

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الغِلُّ بَذْرُ الشَّرِّ" which translates to

Rancour is the seed of evil.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims in understanding the detrimental effects of harboring ill feelings towards others.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (al-ghill) "الغِلُّ" refers to deep-seated animosity, grudges, or enmity towards someone. It is a state of holding onto negative emotions and resentment. (bathr) "بَذْرُ" means seed, symbolizing the origin or source of something. And (ash-sharr) "الشَّرِّ" signifies evil, harm, or wrongdoing.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with others and avoiding enmity and hatred. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah says,

The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the unity and brotherhood among Muslims, urging them to reconcile their differences and foster love and harmony.

Furthermore, the Quran warns against the destructive consequences of harboring ill feelings towards others. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2), Allah says,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse emphasizes the importance of working together for good deeds and righteousness, while discouraging any form of aggression or animosity.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the negative consequences that arise from holding onto grudges and ill feelings. When we allow rancor to take root within our hearts, it becomes the seed from which evil actions and behaviors sprout. It can lead to backbiting, slander, and even physical harm. Moreover, it hinders personal growth and spiritual development, preventing us from attaining inner peace and tranquility.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words echo the teachings of the Quran. He understood that harboring ill feelings towards others not only harms the individual, but also disrupts the unity and harmony within the Muslim community. By highlighting the destructive nature of rancor, he sought to guide Muslims towards forgiveness, compassion, and reconciliation.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we must strive to uproot any feelings of animosity or grudges from our hearts. Instead, we should cultivate love, forgiveness, and empathy towards our fellow Muslims. By doing so, we can contribute to a harmonious society and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood within the ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the detrimental effects of harboring ill feelings towards others. It urges Muslims to let go of rancor and embrace forgiveness and compassion. By doing so, we can prevent the seed of evil from taking root within our hearts and contribute to a more peaceful and united Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all towards love, forgiveness, and unity.