Hadith #3204

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

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

مِنَ الخِلافِ تَكُونُ النَّبْوَةُ۔

This can be translated as,

From disagreement stems repulsion [and hatred].

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (khilaf) "خِلاف" in this Hadith refers to disagreement or discord. It signifies a state of conflict or divergence of opinions among individuals or groups. This disagreement can arise due to various factors such as differences in beliefs, interpretations, or actions. It is important to note that this Hadith does not imply that all forms of disagreement are negative or harmful. Rather, it highlights the potential consequences that can arise from prolonged and unresolved conflicts.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46),

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and obedience to Allah and His Messenger. It warns against engaging in disputes that can lead to a loss of courage and strength. Disagreements, if not managed properly, can weaken the collective strength of the Muslim community and hinder its progress.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes within the Muslim community. It encourages Muslims to seek reconciliation and justice, rather than allowing disagreements to escalate into harmful divisions. It is through peaceful resolution and adherence to the guidance of Allah that unity can be restored.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses. The Imam is reminding us of the potential consequences of prolonged and unresolved disagreements. When disagreements are not addressed and resolved in a constructive manner, they can lead to repulsion and even hatred among individuals or groups.

This repulsion and hatred can manifest in various ways. It can create divisions within the Muslim community, weaken the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, and hinder the collective progress of the ummah. Moreover, it can also tarnish the image of Islam and hinder the spread of its message of peace and unity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, is urging us to reflect on the importance of unity and the detrimental effects of unresolved conflicts. He is reminding us that the path to true guidance and success lies in unity and adherence to the teachings of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ).

As Muslims, it is our duty to strive for unity, to seek knowledge, and to engage in respectful dialogue when disagreements arise. We must remember that our differences should not divide us, but rather serve as an opportunity for growth and understanding. By following the guidance of the Quran and the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we can overcome disagreements and foster a spirit of unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the path of unity and grant us the wisdom to resolve our differences in a manner that is pleasing to Him. Ameen.