Hadith #9813

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

قَلَّما تَدُومُ مَوَدَّةُ المُلُوكِ والخَوّانِ۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as:

It is seldom that the affection of kings and traitors lasts.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (mawaddah) "مَوَدَّةُ" refers to affection, love, or friendship. The term (al-mulook) "المُلُوكِ" refers to kings or rulers, while (al-khawwan) "الخَوّانِ" refers to traitors or those who betray.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) tells us in Surah Al-Imran, verse 118:

O you who have believed, do not take as intimates those other than yourselves, for they will not spare you [any] ruin. They wish you would have hardship. Hatred has already appeared from their mouths, and what their breasts conceal is greater. We have certainly made clear to you the signs, if you will use reason.

This verse highlights the importance of choosing our companions wisely. It warns us against forming close relationships with those who are not from our own community, as they may not have our best interests at heart. Their affection and friendship may not be sincere, and they may even harbor ill intentions towards us.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah, verse 8, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with justice and righteousness, regardless of their beliefs or affiliations. However, it also reminds us to be cautious and not to place our trust blindly in those who may not share our values or principles.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The Imam is highlighting the transient nature of the affection shown by kings and traitors. While they may appear friendly and supportive at first, their true intentions may be far from genuine. Their love and loyalty are often short-lived, and they may turn against us when it suits their interests.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) wisdom in this Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims to be cautious in forming alliances and friendships. We should not be swayed by the temporary affection of those in positions of power or those who may have ulterior motives. Instead, we should seek companionship and alliances based on sincerity, shared values, and a commitment to justice.

This Hadith also serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and relying on Him alone. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 30, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse teaches us that no matter how powerful or influential someone may be, their plans and schemes are ultimately subject to Allah's will. Muslims should place their trust in Allah and seek His guidance in all matters, knowing that He is the best of planners.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the transient nature of the affection shown by kings and traitors. It urges us to be cautious in forming alliances and friendships, and to seek companionship based on sincerity and shared values. We should place our trust in Allah and rely on His guidance, knowing that He is the best of planners. May Allah grant us the wisdom to discern true friendship from false affection and guide us on the path of righteousness.