Hadith #9039

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, "كَفى بِالتَّكَبُّرِ تَلَفاً۔" which translates to

Arrogance is sufficient as a [cause of] loss [and destruction].

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of arrogance and its detrimental consequences.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (takabbur) "تَكَبُّر" refers to arrogance or pride. It is the state of considering oneself superior to others, looking down upon them, and belittling their worth. Arrogance is a negative trait that stems from a lack of humility and a distorted sense of self-importance.

The word (talafan) "تَلَفًا" means loss or destruction. It signifies the ruin and downfall that arrogance brings upon an individual. It is a warning of the severe consequences that await those who indulge in arrogance.

To understand the gravity of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Isra (17:37),

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse reminds us that no matter how arrogant we become, we are still insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Our arrogance will not change the reality of our existence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse emphasizes that true success lies in humility and righteousness, not in arrogance and corruption. Those who seek exaltedness in this world will ultimately face destruction and loss in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to guard against the destructive nature of arrogance. Arrogance blinds us to our own faults and prevents us from seeking improvement. It hinders our ability to empathize with others and leads to the mistreatment of our fellow human beings.

Arrogance also distances us from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), as it is a manifestation of pride and self-centeredness. In Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse highlights the story of Qarun, who was arrogant due to his wealth and power. His arrogance led to his downfall and punishment from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith, we must strive to cultivate humility in our hearts and actions. Humility allows us to acknowledge our weaknesses and seek improvement. It enables us to treat others with kindness, respect, and empathy. By humbling ourselves before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we open the doors to His mercy and blessings.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to guard against the destructive nature of arrogance. It warns us of the severe consequences that await those who indulge in arrogance and pride. By reflecting on the Quranic verses and understanding the detrimental effects of arrogance, we are reminded to cultivate humility in our hearts and actions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the trap of arrogance and grant us the ability to embody the noble qualities of humility and righteousness.