Hadith #768

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) emphasizes the importance of maintaining brotherhood and unity among Muslims. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

He who makes it necessary for you to get a judge to adjudicate between yourself and him is not your brother.

This statement highlights the fact that a true brother in faith should strive to resolve disputes and conflicts amicably, without the need for external intervention.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it presents. The word (akh) "أخ" refers to a brother, not only in the literal sense of blood relation but also in the spiritual sense of brotherhood in Islam. It signifies the bond of faith and unity that Muslims share. The word (hakim) "حاكِم" means a judge or arbitrator, someone who is appointed to settle disputes and make decisions based on Islamic principles.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10),

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts within the Muslim community and highlights the responsibility of believers to maintain unity and harmony.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to

consult them in the matter

when making decisions. This verse highlights the importance of seeking consultation and resolving disputes through mutual agreement and understanding.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith reflects the teachings of the Quran. It emphasizes that true brotherhood in Islam requires individuals to strive for peaceful resolution of conflicts and disputes. It discourages the need for external intervention and encourages Muslims to maintain strong bonds of unity and understanding.

By making it necessary to involve a judge or arbitrator, the person in question is disregarding the principles of brotherhood and unity. This action not only undermines the bond of brotherhood but also creates division and animosity within the Muslim community. It is essential for Muslims to remember that resolving conflicts and disputes internally, with patience, understanding, and forgiveness, strengthens the bond of brotherhood and fosters a sense of unity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening saying serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize reconciliation and peaceful resolution over legalistic approaches. It encourages individuals to reflect on their actions and motivations when faced with conflicts. Instead of resorting to external authorities, Muslims should strive to resolve their differences through open communication, empathy, and understanding.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of maintaining brotherhood and unity within the Muslim community. It urges Muslims to seek peaceful resolution of conflicts and disputes, rather than relying on external authorities to adjudicate. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we can foster a sense of unity, understanding, and compassion among Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in our efforts to uphold the principles of brotherhood and unity in Islam.