Hadith #6841

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

اِرْضَ للنّاسِ بِما تَرْضاهُ لِنَفْسِكَ، تَكُنْ مُسْلِماً۔

This can be translated as,

Be pleased for [other] people with that which pleases you, then you will be a [true] Muslim.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (irḍa) "اِرْضَ" means to be pleased, satisfied, or content. It implies a state of inner satisfaction and acceptance. (lil-nās) "للنّاسِ" refers to the people, encompassing all individuals. (bi-mā) "بِما" means with that which, indicating the action or matter that brings pleasure. (tarḍāhu) "تَرْضاهُ" is derived from the root word (raḍā) "رَضَا", which means to be pleased or satisfied. It signifies the act of being content with something. (li-nafsika) "لِنَفْسِكَ" translates to for yourself, indicating that the pleasure should be extended to oneself as well.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting the diversity among people. It teaches us that our differences in race, ethnicity, and social status should not be a source of division, but rather a means of understanding and unity. By being pleased for others with what pleases us, we embody the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, fostering a harmonious society.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8) to be just and fair in our dealings with others,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of upholding justice and fairness, even if it goes against our personal interests. It encourages us to prioritize the well-being of others and to act with integrity and honesty. By being pleased for others, we demonstrate our commitment to justice and righteousness, fulfilling the true essence of being a Muslim.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to cultivate a mindset of selflessness and empathy. It encourages us to go beyond our own desires and extend our happiness to others. By doing so, we contribute to the betterment of society and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood.

When we are pleased for others, we create an atmosphere of love, compassion, and understanding. We become a source of support and encouragement for our fellow Muslims, uplifting their spirits and bringing joy to their lives. This act of selflessness not only benefits others but also brings immense satisfaction and contentment to our own hearts.

Moreover, being pleased for others fosters a sense of gratitude within us. It helps us appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us and recognize the blessings in the lives of others. This gratitude deepens our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strengthens our faith.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges Muslims to be pleased for others with that which pleases us, embodying the spirit of selflessness and empathy. By doing so, we fulfill the teachings of the Quran and exemplify the true essence of Islam. Let us strive to be Muslims who genuinely care for the well-being and happiness of our fellow brothers and sisters, creating a society that is united, compassionate, and pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to implement this beautiful teaching in our lives.