Hadith #8645

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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, "قَدْ يَبْعُدُ القريب۔" which translates to

The near one may [at times] become distanced.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and serves as a reminder for Muslims to be aware of the transient nature of relationships and the potential for distance to arise even among those who are close to us.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words used. The word (qad) "قَدْ" indicates the possibility or likelihood of something happening. It signifies that the nearness of a person, whether physically or emotionally, can change. The word (yabʿudu) "يَبْعُدُ" means to become distanced or to move away. It implies a shift in the closeness or connection that was once present.

This Hadith reminds us of the impermanence of relationships and the need to constantly work on maintaining and nurturing them. It serves as a cautionary reminder that even those who are near and dear to us can become distant if we neglect our responsibilities towards them. It highlights the importance of actively investing in our relationships and not taking them for granted.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the significance of maintaining strong bonds with family and loved ones. In Surah Al-Isra (17:23), Allah says,

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse highlights the importance of treating our parents with kindness and respect, regardless of their age or any challenges that may arise.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Muslims to reconcile and maintain good relations with one another. The verse states,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the unity and brotherhood among Muslims and encourages them to resolve any conflicts or differences that may arise.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that relationships require constant effort and attention. It urges us to reflect on our own actions and behaviors, ensuring that we are fulfilling our obligations towards those who are close to us. Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to distance and strained relationships.

For example, a person may have a close friend with whom they share a deep bond. However, if they fail to maintain regular communication, show genuine care and concern, or support each other during difficult times, the friendship may gradually fade away. Similarly, a parent who neglects their child's emotional needs or fails to spend quality time with them may find that their relationship becomes distant over time.

The consequences of neglecting relationships can be significant. When individuals become distanced from one another, it can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and resentment. It can also weaken the fabric of families and communities, hindering their ability to support and uplift one another. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to be mindful of the potential for distance to arise and to actively work towards maintaining strong and healthy relationships.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be aware of the transient nature of relationships and the potential for distance to arise even among those who are close to us. It highlights the importance of actively investing in our relationships and fulfilling our responsibilities towards those who are near and dear to us. By doing so, we can foster strong bonds, maintain unity, and create a harmonious society based on love, compassion, and understanding. May Allah guide us in our relationships and grant us the wisdom to nurture and cherish the connections we have with others.