Hadith #3273

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Indeed these natural dispositions are different, and the best of them is the furthest of them from evil.

This Hadith emphasizes the diversity of human nature and highlights the importance of striving towards the best qualities that distance oneself from evil.

Let us analyze the key words in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (taba'iyah) "طَبَايِعَ" refers to the innate or natural dispositions that individuals possess. These dispositions can vary from person to person, as each individual is unique in their characteristics and tendencies. The word (mutabayinah) "مُتَبَايِنَةٌ" means "different" or "diverse," indicating that these natural dispositions are not uniform but rather vary in their qualities and attributes.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states that the best of these natural dispositions is the one that is (ab'aduha mina al-sharr) "أَبْعَدُهَا مِنَ ٱلشَّرِّ", meaning the one that is farthest from evil. This implies that individuals should strive to cultivate and develop the qualities within themselves that distance them from evil and promote goodness.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

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 highlights the diversity among human beings and emphasizes that the best among them are those who possess righteousness and piety. It is not one's lineage, wealth, or physical appearance that determines their worth, but rather their moral character and conduct.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 believers, regardless of their differences in natural dispositions. It reminds Muslims to resolve conflicts and disputes with justice and to fear Allah in their interactions with one another.

From these Quranic verses, we can understand that the diversity of natural dispositions is a part of Allah's divine plan. It is not something to be condemned or judged, but rather an opportunity for individuals to recognize and appreciate the unique qualities that each person brings to the table. The best among us are those who strive to distance themselves from evil and embody righteousness and piety in their actions and behavior.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith that it is our responsibility to recognize and nurture the best qualities within ourselves. By doing so, we can contribute positively to our communities and strive towards the ultimate goal of attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of recognizing the diversity of natural dispositions among individuals. It encourages us to strive towards the qualities that distance us from evil and promote goodness. By understanding and implementing this teaching in our lives, we can foster unity, brotherhood, and righteousness within the Muslim community and beyond. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to cultivate the best qualities within ourselves.