Hadith #5008

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لا سُؤْدَدَ لِسَيِّءِ الخُلْقِ۔

This can be translated into English as,

There is no eminence in one who has a bad character.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (sudad) "سُؤْدَدَ" refers to eminence, excellence, or superiority. It signifies a high rank or status that is achieved through virtuous qualities and noble character. On the other hand, the phrase (sayyi' al-khulq) "سَيِّءِ الخُلْقِ" refers to a bad or corrupt character. It encompasses traits such as dishonesty, arrogance, deceitfulness, and ill-treatment of others.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good character in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Qalam, Allah says, (Quran 68:4)

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the elevated character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who serves as an exemplary role model for all Muslims.

Furthermore, the Quran states, (Quran 21:107)

And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.

This verse highlights the compassionate and merciful nature of the Prophet (ﷺ), which is an integral part of his noble character.

From these Quranic verses, we can infer that eminence and superiority lie in possessing good character traits, just as the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) suggests. A person who possesses virtuous qualities such as honesty, humility, kindness, and justice is truly elevated in the eyes of Allah and in the sight of others.

Conversely, one who possesses a bad character, filled with vices and immoral behavior, cannot attain true eminence. Such a person may have worldly achievements or material wealth, but their character flaws overshadow any external success they may have. Their negative traits tarnish their reputation and diminish their standing in the eyes of Allah and fellow Muslims.

It is important to reflect on the consequences of having a bad character. A person with a corrupt character not only harms themselves but also causes harm to those around them. Their dishonesty may lead to betrayal, their arrogance may lead to oppression, and their ill-treatment of others may lead to injustice. Such behavior creates a toxic environment and disrupts the harmony within society.

On the other hand, a person with good character traits brings about positive change and fosters a sense of unity and compassion. Their honesty builds trust, their humility promotes harmony, and their kindness spreads love and mercy. They become a source of inspiration and guidance for others, leading by example and encouraging others to strive for moral excellence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for all Muslims to prioritize the development of good character. True eminence lies not in external achievements or material possessions, but in the cultivation of virtuous qualities and noble conduct. By embodying the teachings of the Quran and following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we can strive towards attaining a character that is pleasing to Allah and beneficial to ourselves and society as a whole. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the strength to purify our hearts and souls.