Hadith #5785

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

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

It is during the change of circumstances that the [real] gems among the people are known.

This Hadith highlights the importance of recognizing the true worth and qualities of individuals in times of difficulty or challenges. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (tasarif) "تَصارِيفِ" in the Hadith refers to the changes or variations that occur in the circumstances of life. It signifies the different situations and challenges that individuals face throughout their lives. The term (al-ahwal) "الأحْوالِ" refers to these circumstances or conditions. It is through these changing circumstances that the true essence and qualities of individuals are revealed.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of recognizing the true worth of individuals in various verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah says, (Quran 49:7)

And know that among you is the Messenger of Allah. If he were to obey you in much of the matter, you would be in difficulty, but Allah has endeared to you the faith and has made it pleasing in your hearts and has made hateful to you disbelief, defiance, and disobedience. Those are the [rightly] guided.

This verse highlights the importance of recognizing the true value of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his guidance, even in the face of difficulties and challenges. Similarly, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

These verses emphasize that true nobility and worth are not determined by external factors such as wealth, power, or social status. Rather, it is the righteousness and piety of an individual that truly matters in the sight of Allah. This aligns with the message of the Hadith, which reminds us that the true gems among the people are known during times of change and challenges.

In practical terms, this Hadith encourages us to look beyond superficial appearances and recognize the true qualities and virtues of individuals. It reminds us that it is in times of difficulty, when people are tested and their true character is revealed, that we can truly identify the gems among us.

For example, during times of adversity, we may witness individuals who display patience, resilience, and kindness. These are the gems among us, whose true worth shines through in the face of hardship. Conversely, we may also witness individuals who crumble under pressure, display negative traits, or abandon their principles. These are the individuals whose true character is also revealed during challenging times.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating and nurturing our own inner qualities, such as patience, kindness, and steadfastness. We should strive to be among the gems who shine brightly during times of change and challenges. Additionally, this Hadith encourages us to seek out and appreciate the true gems among our fellow Muslims, recognizing and valuing their virtues and qualities.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that it is during the change of circumstances that the true gems among the people are known. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of recognizing true worth and character, we are encouraged to look beyond superficial appearances and appreciate the virtues and qualities of individuals. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be among the gems who shine brightly during times of difficulty and challenges.