Hadith #9151

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,

الكرم أعطف من الرحم

which translates to

Nobleness is [being] more compassionate than close relatives.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of kindness and compassion, emphasizing that true nobility lies in treating others with utmost care and empathy, even surpassing the natural affection one may have for their own family members.

To understand the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The word (al-karam) "الكرم" refers to nobility, generosity, and magnanimity. It encompasses the act of going above and beyond in showing kindness and benevolence towards others. The word (a'thaful) "أعطف" is derived from the root word (atfa) "عطف", which means to be compassionate, tender, and gentle. It signifies the act of showing mercy, sympathy, and understanding towards others. Lastly, the word (ar-rahm) "الرحم" refers to close relatives, specifically referring to the womb and the bond of kinship.

The exegesis of this Hadith can be further illuminated by referencing the Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of compassion and kindness towards others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:63),

And He has put affection between their hearts. If you had spent all that is in the earth, you could not have put affection between their hearts, but Allah has done it.

This verse highlights that it is Allah who instills love and compassion in the hearts of people. It is through His divine guidance that we are able to cultivate a sense of empathy and care for others, transcending the boundaries of blood relations.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Balad (90:17-18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Then he is of those who believe and enjoin patience, and enjoin mercy on people. And Allah is ever Forgiving and Merciful.

These verses emphasize the importance of believers not only having faith but also actively promoting patience and mercy towards others. It is through acts of kindness and compassion that we embody the true essence of faith and righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for all Muslims to prioritize compassion and kindness in their interactions with others. It challenges the notion that familial ties alone are sufficient grounds for showing love and care. Instead, it encourages Muslims to extend their benevolence to all individuals, regardless of their relation to them. This means treating strangers, acquaintances, and even adversaries with the same level of compassion and empathy that one would show towards their own family members.

By embodying the teachings of this Hadith, Muslims can create a society that is built on love, understanding, and mutual respect. It motivates individuals to go beyond their comfort zones and extend a helping hand to those in need, regardless of their background or social status. This act of selflessness not only benefits the recipient but also brings about a sense of fulfillment and spiritual growth for the one who practices it.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reflection of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound knowledge and wisdom. His understanding of the Quranic teachings allowed him to articulate this timeless message that resonates with Muslims of all generations. It showcases his ability to extract profound meanings from the verses of the Quran and apply them to practical aspects of life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of compassion and kindness, surpassing the bounds of blood relations. It encourages Muslims to embody true nobility by treating others with utmost care and empathy. By referring to the Quranic verses that highlight the significance of compassion, we can further understand the depth and relevance of this Hadith in our lives. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice and embody the teachings of this Hadith, and may it inspire us to create a society filled with love, compassion, and understanding.