Hadith #902

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الأدبُ أفْضَلُ حَسَب۔" which translates to

Good etiquette is the best merit.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their daily lives.

Let us first delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. "الأدبُ" refers to good etiquette, manners, and behavior. It encompasses a wide range of actions, including respect, kindness, humility, and patience. "أفْضَلُ" means the best or the most superior, indicating the highest level of excellence. "حَسَب۔" can be understood as merit, virtue, or reward.

To understand the significance of good etiquette, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good manners and character in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah says,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the exemplary character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for the same.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah states,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true nobility and superiority lie in righteousness and piety, which are closely linked to good etiquette.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the immense value of good etiquette in the eyes of Allah. It serves as a reminder that our actions and behavior towards others hold great significance in our spiritual journey. Good etiquette is not merely a superficial display, but rather a reflection of our inner character and relationship with Allah.

When we embody good etiquette, we are following in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who exemplified the highest standards of conduct. Their teachings and actions serve as a guide for Muslims to cultivate good manners and etiquette in all aspects of life.

Practicing good etiquette has far-reaching consequences. It fosters harmonious relationships within families, communities, and societies. It promotes unity, empathy, and compassion, creating an environment of peace and tranquility. Good etiquette also enhances our worship and devotion to Allah, as it reflects our sincerity and humility before Him.

Moreover, good etiquette has a transformative effect on our own selves. It purifies our hearts, strengthens our faith, and elevates our spiritual status. It allows us to navigate through life's challenges with grace and patience. By embodying good etiquette, we become beacons of light, inspiring others to follow the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Good etiquette is the best merit

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize and cultivate good manners and behavior. It is a call to embody the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By doing so, we not only attain the highest level of excellence in the sight of Allah, but also contribute to a more harmonious and virtuous society. May Allah guide us all in embodying good etiquette and grant us the ability to follow the footsteps of our beloved Prophet (ﷺ) and his noble family.