Hadith #2387

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Act with kindness towards your enemy for this is one of the two triumphs.

This profound statement emphasizes the importance of treating even one's enemies with kindness and compassion. To fully understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (fadl) "فَضْلِ" in the Hadith refers to acts of kindness, favor, or grace. It encompasses going beyond what is expected or required, and treating others with generosity and benevolence. This word highlights the importance of acting with goodness and compassion towards our enemies, even when they may not deserve it.

The phrase (ahadu ath-thafarayn) "أحَدُ الظَّفَرَيْنِ" in the Hadith translates to

one of the two triumphs.

This phrase signifies that acting with kindness towards one's enemy is a means of achieving victory or success. It implies that by responding to enmity with kindness, we can overcome animosity and potentially change the hearts and minds of our adversaries.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Fussilat (41:34),

Repel evil with that which is better. Then, behold, the one between whom and you there was enmity will become as though he was a close friend.

This verse encourages Muslims to respond to evil or enmity with that which is better, which includes acts of kindness and forgiveness. By doing so, we have the potential to transform our enemies into close allies.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating even those who are not actively fighting against us with fairness and justice. It reminds us that kindness and justice should be extended to all, regardless of their beliefs or actions.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us that responding to enmity with kindness is a powerful tool for reconciliation and building bridges. When we choose to act with kindness towards our enemies, we demonstrate the true essence of Islam and the teachings of the Quran. This approach has the potential to soften hearts, change perceptions, and pave the way for peaceful resolutions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, encourages us to adopt this approach in dealing with our adversaries. By doing so, we not only uphold the principles of Islam but also embody the qualities of mercy and compassion that our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) exemplified throughout his life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to act with kindness towards our enemies, as it is one of the two triumphs. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize responding to enmity with goodness and justice. By choosing kindness over animosity, we have the potential to transform our enemies into allies and contribute to a more harmonious and peaceful society. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody this noble teaching in our lives.