Hadith #633

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

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

اِسْتِفْسادُ الصَّديقِ مِنْ عَدَمِ التَّوفيقِ۔

This can be translated as,

Seeking the destruction of a friend stems from lack of conciliation.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (istifsad) "اِسْتِفْسادُ" refers to seeking destruction or harm. It implies causing corruption, discord, or harm to a friend or companion. The word (as-sadiq) "الصَّديقِ" means a sincere and true friend, someone who is trustworthy and loyal. The phrase (min 'adamit-tawfiq) "مِنْ عَدَمِ التَّوفيقِ" can be understood as stemming from a lack of conciliation or reconciliation.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with others and avoiding discord. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, Allah says,

Indeed, the believers are brothers. So make peace between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of fostering unity and harmony among believers, treating each other as brothers and sisters in faith.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 46, Allah reminds us,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart.

This verse emphasizes the detrimental effects of disputes and discord within the Muslim community. It warns against engaging in arguments that can weaken the strength and unity of the believers.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us that seeking the destruction or harm of a sincere friend is a result of a lack of conciliation. It highlights the importance of resolving conflicts and maintaining peaceful relationships. When we fail to reconcile with others, we risk causing harm and discord, which goes against the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom. He understood the consequences of discord and the importance of fostering unity among Muslims. His words serve as a reminder for us to prioritize reconciliation and conciliation in our relationships.

When we seek the destruction of a friend or harbor ill feelings towards them, we not only harm the individual but also contribute to the fragmentation of the Muslim community. Our actions have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only our personal relationships but also the overall strength and unity of the ummah.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to be agents of peace and reconciliation. We should actively seek to resolve conflicts and misunderstandings, approaching others with kindness, empathy, and a sincere desire for reconciliation. By doing so, we can contribute to the well-being and unity of the Muslim community, following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to uphold the values of peace, unity, and reconciliation in our relationships. May He guide us to be true friends and companions to one another, seeking conciliation and avoiding the path of destruction. Ameen.