Hadith #4905

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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, "مَنْ تَوَقَّرَ وُقِّرَ۔" This can be translated as,

One who acts with solemnity is revered.

To understand the meaning behind this statement, let us delve into the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (tawaqqara) "تَوَقَّرَ" comes from the root word (waqqara) "وَقَّرَ", which means to honor, respect, or venerate. It signifies an individual's behavior and attitude of showing reverence and dignity towards others. It involves treating others with utmost respect, humility, and kindness.

On the other hand, the word (wuqqira) "وُقِّرَ" is derived from the same root word and means to be revered or honored. It implies that when one acts with solemnity and shows respect towards others, they themselves are held in high esteem and are honored by others.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of knowing and respecting one another, regardless of our differences in race, ethnicity, or social status. It reminds us that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety. When we act with solemnity and honor others, we are embodying the qualities of righteousness and piety, thereby earning the respect and reverence of others.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:70), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And indeed, We have honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse highlights the inherent honor and dignity bestowed upon every human being by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that we are all equal in the sight of Allah and that our actions and behavior towards others determine our true worth. When we act with solemnity and treat others with respect, we are upholding the honor that Allah has bestowed upon us.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that when we act with solemnity, showing reverence and respect towards others, we not only elevate their status but also enhance our own. By treating others with kindness and dignity, we create an environment of mutual respect and harmony. Our actions have a ripple effect, influencing others to reciprocate the same level of respect and reverence.

When we act with solemnity, we inspire others to emulate our behavior, leading to a society characterized by compassion, empathy, and unity. Conversely, when we disregard the importance of treating others with respect, we create divisions, animosity, and a lack of harmony within our communities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this teaching throughout his life. His interactions with people, regardless of their social status, were marked by respect and humility. His actions served as a guiding light for Muslims, encouraging them to embody the values of reverence and honor in their daily lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

One who acts with solemnity is revered,

reminds us of the importance of treating others with respect and dignity. By embodying the qualities of reverence and honor, we not only elevate the status of others but also enhance our own worth in the eyes of Allah and our fellow Muslims. Let us strive to emulate the noble example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and create a society characterized by mutual respect, unity, and harmony. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness.