Hadith #6490

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Self-admiration is contrary to reason.

Let us delve into the meaning of this beautiful saying and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (i'jab) "إعْجاب" in Arabic refers to self-admiration or being impressed with oneself. It is the feeling of being pleased with one's own qualities, achievements, or appearance. On the other hand, the word (sawab) "صَّواب" means reason or correctness. Therefore, the Hadith implies that self-admiration is in direct opposition to reason and correctness.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us in the Quran to be humble and not to boast or be arrogant. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (Quran 53:32)

So do not claim yourselves to be pure; He is most knowing of who fears Him.

This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and warns against self-admiration.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us that true success and worth lie in righteousness and piety, not in worldly achievements or self-praise. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.

This verse highlights that true nobility and superiority are based on one's level of piety and righteousness, not on personal accomplishments or self-admiration.

Self-admiration can lead to arrogance, which is a destructive trait condemned in Islam. Arrogance blinds individuals to their own faults and prevents them from seeking improvement. It hinders personal growth, damages relationships, and creates divisions within society. The Quran warns against arrogance in Surah Luqman, where Allah says, (Quran 31:18)

Do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to remain humble and grounded. It encourages us to focus on self-improvement and spiritual growth rather than seeking validation or admiration from others. By recognizing the dangers of self-admiration, we can strive to develop humility, gratitude, and a sincere desire to serve others.

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

Self-admiration is contrary to reason

reminds us of the importance of humility and the dangers of arrogance. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the significance of righteousness, piety, and humility. By reflecting on this teaching, Muslims can strive to cultivate humility, seek self-improvement, and avoid the pitfalls of self-admiration. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to overcome our egos.