Hadith #9224

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 زادَهُ اللّهُ كَرامَةً فَحَقيقٌ بِه أنْ يَزيدَ النّاسَ إكْراماً۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of showing respect and honor to others when Allah has bestowed upon someone an increase in their own esteem or status.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their implications. The word (zadahu) "زادَهُ" means "increased" or "elevated," indicating that Allah has bestowed upon an individual a higher level of honor or respect. The word (karamatan) "كَرامَةً" refers to this increase in esteem or dignity. It is important to note that this increase is a divine blessing from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), indicating His favor upon the individual.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states that it is the right of the person who has been elevated by Allah to reciprocate this increase in honor by showing more respect and kindness towards others. The phrase (yazeeda al-nasa ikraman) "يَزيدَ النّاسَ إكْراماً" means that they should increase their own acts of respect and honor towards people. This implies that the individual should not let their increased status lead to arrogance or a sense of superiority, but rather they should use it as an opportunity to uplift and honor others.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of humility, kindness, and respect towards others. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames.

This verse reminds us that we should not belittle or mock others, as they may be better in the sight of Allah. It encourages us to treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their social status or background. Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra (17:70), Allah says,

And We have certainly 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 all human beings by Allah. It reminds us that every individual deserves to be treated with respect and kindness, regardless of their personal accomplishments or social standing. Therefore, when Allah increases our own esteem or status, it becomes our duty to extend that honor to others as well.

The consequences of following this Hadith are profound. By treating others with respect and honor, we create an atmosphere of unity, harmony, and love within the Muslim community. It fosters a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Moreover, it reflects the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of humility, kindness, and compassion towards others.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that it serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the qualities of humility and respect in their interactions with others. It encourages us to use any increase in our own esteem or status as an opportunity to uplift and honor those around us. By doing so, we not only fulfill the rights of others but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives and may He increase us in honor and dignity. Ameen.