Hadith #5363

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مُجانَبَةُ الرَّيْبِ مِنْ أحْسَنِ الفُتُوَّةِ۔

This can be translated as,

Keeping away from suspicion is from the best magnanimity.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (mujanabah) "مُجانَبَةُ" means to distance oneself or keep away from something. In this context, it refers to refraining from suspicion or doubt. The term (rayb) "الرَّيْبِ" signifies suspicion, uncertainty, or conjecture. It is important to note that suspicion here does not refer to a healthy skepticism or critical thinking, but rather to baseless doubts or negative assumptions about others.

The phrase (ahsan al-futuwwah) "أحْسَنِ الفُتُوَّةِ" can be translated as "the best magnanimity." (futuwwah) "فُتُوَّةِ" refers to acts of generosity, nobility, and chivalry. It encompasses virtues such as kindness, forgiveness, and trustworthiness. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting that refraining from suspicion is not only a virtuous act but also one of the highest forms of magnanimity.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of avoiding suspicion and baseless doubts. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse highlights the negative consequences of suspicion and the importance of avoiding it. It warns against making negative assumptions about others, as it can lead to sin and harm. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) compares such assumptions to consuming the flesh of one's own brother, a repulsive act that no one would desire. Therefore, Muslims are urged to fear Allah and refrain from suspicion, replacing it with trust and goodwill towards others.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse highlights the importance of verifying information before forming judgments or taking action. It advises Muslims to investigate the credibility of information and not to harm others based on ignorance. By doing so, one avoids falling into the trap of suspicion and ensures that their actions are based on truth and justice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages Muslims to refrain from suspicion and doubt, as it is not only a virtuous act but also a manifestation of magnanimity. When we distance ourselves from suspicion, we create an atmosphere of trust, unity, and harmony within our communities. This fosters stronger relationships, promotes empathy, and allows for the growth and development of individuals and society as a whole.

Furthermore, by avoiding suspicion, we uphold the Islamic values of justice, fairness, and compassion. We give others the benefit of the doubt and treat them with respect and dignity. This not only strengthens our own character but also contributes to the overall well-being of the Muslim ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of refraining from suspicion and baseless doubts. It calls upon Muslims to embody the highest form of magnanimity by replacing suspicion with trust, goodwill, and generosity. By doing so, we uphold the teachings of the Quran and contribute to the creation of a harmonious and just society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and grant us the strength to overcome our own biases and suspicions.