Hadith #928

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

مَنْ ساءَ أدَبُهُ شانَ حَسَبَهُ۔

This can be translated into English as,

One whose etiquette is bad, his honourable lineage gets tarnished.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words. The word "أدَبُهُ" refers to one's etiquette or manners, encompassing how one conducts themselves in various situations. It includes aspects such as respect, kindness, and consideration towards others. The word "شانَ" refers to one's honor or reputation, while "حَسَبَهُ" refers to their lineage or ancestry.

To understand the wise message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them.

This verse highlights the need to treat others with respect and avoid belittling or mocking them.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah reminds us,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing our words wisely and speaking in a manner that is kind and beneficial.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we can understand that our manners and etiquette have a direct impact on our reputation and lineage. When we display good manners, we are upholding the values and teachings of Islam, which in turn enhances our honor and reputation. Conversely, when our manners are lacking, it tarnishes our lineage and diminishes the respect others have for us.

For example, if a person with a noble lineage behaves rudely, speaks ill of others, or lacks empathy, their actions reflect poorly on their family and heritage. People may question the upbringing and values instilled in them, leading to a loss of respect and honor for their lineage. On the other hand, a person who exemplifies good manners and etiquette brings honor to their family and heritage, as their actions reflect the teachings of Islam and the noble character of their ancestors.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize good manners and etiquette in their daily lives. It highlights the importance of embodying the teachings of Islam and the exemplary character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By doing so, we not only preserve our own honor and reputation but also contribute to the positive perception of our entire lineage.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that our manners and etiquette play a significant role in shaping our reputation and lineage. It reminds us to always strive for excellence in our conduct, treating others with respect, kindness, and empathy. By embodying the teachings of Islam and upholding the noble character of our Prophet (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we not only preserve our own honor but also contribute to the positive perception of our entire lineage. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in embodying the best of manners and etiquette.