Hadith #9403

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he warns us to be cautious of "blameworthy stubbornness" or "mazmoom al-lajaj" in Arabic. The word "mazmoom" refers to something that is blameworthy or disapproved, while "lajaj" refers to stubbornness or obstinacy. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that this negative trait has the potential to incite hostilities or conflicts.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of avoiding stubbornness and arrogance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 206, Allah says,

And when it is said to him, 'Fear Allah,' pride in the sin takes hold of him. Sufficient for him is Hellfire, and how wretched is the resting place.

This verse highlights the consequences of stubbornness and arrogance, which ultimately lead to a miserable outcome.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 83, Allah warns,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse reminds us that true success lies in humility and righteousness, rather than seeking power and causing corruption through stubbornness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) understood the destructive nature of blameworthy stubbornness. He witnessed how it could lead to conflicts and wars, tearing apart communities and causing immense suffering. Therefore, he advises Muslims to be cautious and avoid this negative trait in order to maintain peace and harmony.

To illustrate the consequences of blameworthy stubbornness, we can look at historical examples. During the time of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he faced opposition from those who refused to accept his rightful leadership. Despite his efforts to reconcile and seek unity, their stubbornness and refusal to acknowledge the truth led to the Battle of Jamal and the Battle of Siffin, resulting in the loss of countless lives.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) wisdom in warning against blameworthy stubbornness is evident in his own actions. He consistently demonstrated humility, patience, and a willingness to seek peaceful resolutions. His knowledge and understanding of the Quran guided his approach, as he recognized that true strength lies in humility and the pursuit of justice.

As Muslims, we should reflect on this Hadith and strive to embody the qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). We must avoid blameworthy stubbornness and instead cultivate humility, open-mindedness, and a willingness to listen to others. By doing so, we can contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious society, just as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) envisioned.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and protect us from the destructive consequences of blameworthy stubbornness.