Hadith #8289

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

الفتوة نائل مبذول، وأذىً مكفوف

which translates to

Chivalry is a gift that is granted and a harm that is restrained.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encapsulates the essence of true chivalry, highlighting its positive aspects as well as the importance of restraining harm.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words used. The word (al-futwah) "الفتوة" refers to chivalry or gallantry. It encompasses noble qualities such as bravery, generosity, and honor. It is a characteristic that distinguishes individuals who possess a sense of righteousness and selflessness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes chivalry as (nailun mabthulun) "نائِلٌ مَبْذُولٌ", which can be translated as

a gift that is granted.

This implies that chivalry is not something that can be acquired solely through personal efforts, but rather it is a divine blessing bestowed upon individuals. It is a quality that is granted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to those who strive for righteousness and seek to emulate the noble characteristics of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt.

On the other hand, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also mentions that chivalry is (adhan makufoof) "أذىً مَكْفُوفٌ", which can be translated as

a harm that is restrained.

This highlights the importance of using chivalry in a balanced and controlled manner. While chivalry is a virtue, it should not be used as a means to cause harm or oppress others. It should be restrained and directed towards promoting justice, compassion, and the well-being of others.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining].

This verse emphasizes the importance of spending in the way of Allah, but it also cautions against reckless behavior that may lead to harm or destruction. It reminds us to exercise restraint and wisdom in our actions, just as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) has emphasized in his Hadith.

Another verse that resonates with the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse encourages Muslims to uphold justice and fairness, even if it means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It highlights the importance of restraining harm and promoting righteousness, which are integral aspects of chivalry.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the true essence of chivalry. It calls upon us to strive for noble qualities and virtues, while also reminding us of the responsibility to restrain harm and use our chivalry for the betterment of society. By practicing chivalry in this balanced manner, we can contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society, reflecting the teachings of Islam and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to understand and implement the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives, and may He bless us with true chivalry that is granted and harm that is restrained.