Hadith #9637

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the dangers of seeking compliments and praise. The word (love) "حُبُّ" signifies a deep attachment or inclination towards something. (compliments) "الإطْراءِ" refers to the act of praising someone or expressing admiration for their qualities or actions. (praise) "المَدْحِ" refers to the act of speaking highly of someone or extolling their virtues. The word (surest) "أوْثَقِ" emphasizes the certainty and reliability of the statement. Lastly, (Satan) "الشَّيْطانِ" refers to the devil, who is the ultimate enemy of mankind and constantly seeks to lead us astray.

To understand the wise message of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 168:

O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse reminds us to be cautious and not to follow the path of Satan, who is always trying to deceive us. Seeking compliments and praise can be one of the ways in which Satan tempts us and leads us away from the straight path.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Furqan, verse 43, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the characteristics of the true servants of the Most Merciful:

And [they are] those who, when they spend, do so not excessively or sparingly but are ever, between that, [justly] moderate.

This verse highlights the importance of moderation in our actions, including seeking compliments and praise. Excessive love for compliments and praise can lead to arrogance and a false sense of superiority, which goes against the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the dangers of seeking compliments and praise because it can lead to various negative consequences. Firstly, it can lead to arrogance and pride, which are sins condemned in Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 23:

So that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

Seeking compliments and praise can make us self-deluded and boastful, which is displeasing to Allah.

Secondly, seeking compliments and praise can distract us from our true purpose in life, which is to worship Allah and seek His pleasure. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Zumar, verse 9:

Is one who is devoutly obedient during periods of the night, prostrating and standing [in prayer], fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord, [like one who does not]? Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.

Seeking compliments and praise can divert our attention from the remembrance of Allah and hinder our spiritual growth.

Lastly, seeking compliments and praise can lead to insincerity in our actions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Ma'un, verses 4-5:

So woe to those who pray [but] who are heedless of their prayer - those who make show [of their deeds].

Seeking compliments and praise can make us more concerned with how our actions are perceived by others rather than focusing on the sincerity of our intentions. This can lead to hypocrisy and a lack of true devotion to Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of seeking compliments and praise. By reflecting on the Quranic verses, we understand that excessive love for compliments and praise can lead to arrogance, distract us from our true purpose, and result in insincerity in our actions. As Muslims, we should strive to seek the pleasure of Allah alone and not be swayed by the temptations of Satan. May Allah guide us on the straight path and protect us from the traps of the devil.