Hadith #950

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Preventing yourself from harming [others] reforms the hearts of your enemies towards you.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm and aggression towards others. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith.

The word (man'u) "مَنْعُ" means "preventing" or "refraining from." It signifies the act of restraining oneself from causing harm or injury to others. This includes both physical harm and any form of emotional or psychological harm. The word (adhaaka) "أَذَاكَ" refers to "harming" or "injuring" others. It encompasses any action or behavior that causes pain, distress, or discomfort to someone else. The word (yuslihu) "يُصلِحُ" means "reforms" or "rectifies." It implies the positive transformation or improvement of something. Lastly, the word (quloob) "قُلُوبُ" translates to "hearts," symbolizing the innermost feelings, emotions, and attitudes of individuals.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Fussilat (41:34),

And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.

This verse emphasizes the importance of responding to evil with goodness and kindness. By refraining from causing harm and responding to negativity with positivity, we have the potential to transform the hearts of our enemies and turn them into allies.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:96), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

Repel, by [means of] what is best, [their] evil. We are most knowing of what they describe.

This verse encourages us to respond to evil with that which is better and more virtuous. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves from falling into the same negativity, but we also have the opportunity to positively influence the hearts and minds of those who harbor ill feelings towards us.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense wisdom and knowledge, highlights the profound impact of refraining from harming others. When we choose to prevent ourselves from causing harm, we create a space for understanding, empathy, and reconciliation. By treating our enemies with kindness, compassion, and respect, we have the potential to change their perception of us and foster a more harmonious relationship.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to embody the teachings of Islam in their interactions with others. It encourages us to rise above our egos, control our anger, and respond to negativity with patience and wisdom. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves from the consequences of harmful actions, but we also have the opportunity to positively influence the hearts and minds of those who may have animosity towards us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the profound impact of refraining from harming others. By preventing ourselves from causing harm, we have the potential to reform the hearts of our enemies towards us. This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize responding to evil with goodness and repelling negativity with positivity. As Muslims, it is our duty to embody these teachings and strive for peace, understanding, and reconciliation in all our interactions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to follow the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).