Hadith #3498

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

لِكُلِّ داخِل دَهْشَةٌ فَابْدَأوا بِالسَّلامِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of initiating interactions with greetings of peace, as it acknowledges that every person who enters a gathering or encounters another person experiences a sense of unease or astonishment. Therefore, it is recommended to alleviate this feeling by beginning with the greeting of (peace) "salaam".

The word (daakhil) "داخِل" in the Hadith refers to someone who enters a place or joins a gathering. It signifies the act of entering into a new environment or situation. The word (dahshah) "دَهْشَةٌ" refers to a feeling of astonishment, confusion, or unease that one may experience upon entering a new setting. It is a natural human reaction when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or people.

To understand the significance of initiating interactions with salaam, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah An-Nisa (4:86), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And when you are greeted with a greeting, greet [in return] with one better than it or [at least] return it [in a like manner]. Indeed, Allah is ever, over all things, an Accountant.

This verse emphasizes the importance of responding to greetings with a better or equal greeting. By doing so, we not only fulfill the etiquette of social interaction but also please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, in Surah Al-An'am (6:54), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to

turn away from those who have turned their backs on Our message and do not seek to corrupt the earth. And when you are reminded of your Lord's revelations, take no notice of them while you are playing or inattentive.

This verse highlights the importance of being attentive and respectful when reminded of Allah's revelations. By initiating interactions with salaam, we demonstrate our attentiveness and respect for the presence of Allah and His guidance.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to begin our interactions with salaam to alleviate the initial unease or astonishment that people may experience. By doing so, we create an atmosphere of peace and harmony, fostering a sense of comfort and familiarity. This simple act of greeting not only eases social interactions but also reflects the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of kindness, respect, and unity among Muslims.

When we greet others with salaam, we are acknowledging their presence and showing them that we value their company. This act of kindness can have profound effects on individuals and communities. It can break down barriers, build bridges, and promote a sense of belonging and acceptance. By initiating interactions with salaam, we contribute to the creation of a positive and inclusive environment, where everyone feels welcomed and valued.

Furthermore, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of empathy and understanding. When we greet others with salaam, we are acknowledging the potential unease or astonishment they may be experiencing. This act of empathy helps to create a sense of connection and compassion, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the significance of initiating interactions with salaam. By doing so, we alleviate the initial unease or astonishment that people may experience upon entering a new environment or encountering others. This act of greeting not only fulfills the etiquette of social interaction but also reflects the teachings of Islam, which emphasize kindness, respect, and unity among Muslims. By beginning with salaam, we create an atmosphere of peace and harmony, fostering a sense of comfort, familiarity, and empathy. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to implement this teaching in our daily lives and grant us the ability to spread peace and goodwill among all Muslims.