Hadith #2590

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) states,

Mani ittaraha al-hiqda, istarah qalbuhu walubuhu.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of eliminating malice or hatred from one's heart, as it leads to the relaxation and tranquility of both the heart and mind.

To better understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "Ittaraha" means to eliminate or remove, while "al-hiqd" refers to malice or hatred. "Istarah" signifies relaxation or tranquility, and "qalb" and "lub" both refer to the heart.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of purifying one's heart from negative emotions such as malice and hatred. 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. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding ridicule, insults, and offensive nicknames, which are all manifestations of malice and hatred. By refraining from such behavior, one can maintain harmony and tranquility in their heart and mind.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah says,

Those who spend [in Allah's cause] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse encourages Muslims to control their anger and forgive others, which is a direct antidote to malice and hatred. By doing so, one can attain the love and pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) complements these Quranic teachings by emphasizing the direct correlation between eliminating malice and experiencing relaxation in the heart and mind. When we harbor malice towards others, it consumes our thoughts and emotions, leading to stress, anxiety, and unrest. However, when we let go of this negativity and choose forgiveness and kindness, our hearts and minds find solace and tranquility.

Let us reflect on the consequences of harboring malice in our hearts. When we hold grudges and nurture hatred, it not only affects our own well-being but also hinders our relationships with others. Malice creates a toxic environment, breeding animosity and discord among individuals and communities. On the other hand, when we choose to eliminate malice and replace it with forgiveness and compassion, we foster an atmosphere of love, unity, and peace.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. He understood the detrimental effects of malice on the individual and society. By emphasizing the importance of eliminating malice, he guides us towards a path of spiritual growth and inner peace.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the significance of removing malice from our hearts. By doing so, we can experience relaxation and tranquility in our hearts and minds. This teaching aligns with the Quranic emphasis on forgiveness, kindness, and controlling anger. Let us strive to follow the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and purify our hearts from malice, fostering an environment of love, unity, and peace among all Muslims.