Hadith #7883

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, "أشْرَفُ الخَلائِقِ الوَفاءُ۔" This can be translated as,

The most honourable characteristic is loyalty.

In this beautiful Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and nobility of loyalty.

The word (ashraful) "أشْرَفُ" means the most honorable or noble. It signifies a quality that is esteemed and respected. The word (al-khala'iq) "الخَلائِقِ" refers to characteristics or attributes. And finally, the word (al-wafa') "الوَفاءُ" means loyalty or faithfulness.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of loyalty in several verses. For example, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:27), Allah says,

O you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence].

This verse highlights the importance of remaining loyal to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ). It reminds us that betraying their trust is a grave sin. Loyalty to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) is a fundamental aspect of faith and a characteristic of the most honorable individuals.

Another verse that emphasizes loyalty is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177), where Allah says,

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse highlights that true righteousness is not merely in outward actions, but it also includes fulfilling promises and being loyal to one's commitments. Loyalty is an integral part of righteousness and is a characteristic of those who are truly righteous in the sight of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes that loyalty is the most honorable characteristic one can possess. It is a quality that reflects the highest level of integrity, trustworthiness, and devotion. When a person is loyal, they remain steadfast in their commitments, whether it is to Allah, their family, their friends, or their community.

Loyalty has profound implications in various aspects of life. In personal relationships, loyalty fosters trust, strengthens bonds, and ensures the well-being of individuals and communities. It enables people to rely on one another and creates a sense of security and stability.

In the context of religious devotion, loyalty to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) is essential. It means remaining steadfast in faith, following the teachings of Islam, and upholding the principles of justice, compassion, and righteousness. Loyalty to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his family (Ahl al-Bayt) is a sign of love and respect for their immense contributions to Islam.

Moreover, loyalty to one's community and society is crucial for its progress and prosperity. When individuals are loyal to their community, they actively participate in its development, support one another, and work towards the common good. This loyalty helps create a harmonious and cohesive society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of loyalty in their lives. It encourages us to reflect on our own actions and relationships, and strive to be loyal to Allah, His Messenger (ﷺ), our families, and our communities.

Let us embody the noble characteristic of loyalty, for it is through loyalty that we can truly honor our faith and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to be loyal in all aspects of our lives.