Hadith #7636

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises us to be cautious of any action that an individual may be pleased to perform for themselves, but dislikes when others, particularly Muslims, engage in the same action. This Hadith highlights the importance of sincerity and unity within the Muslim community.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (amal) "عَمَل" refers to an action or deed. It encompasses both physical actions and intentions behind them. The word (yardahu) "يَرْضاهُ" means to be pleased or satisfied with. It signifies the personal satisfaction and approval of the doer towards their own action. On the other hand, the word (yakrahuhu) "يَكْرَهُهُ" means to dislike or hate. It signifies the aversion or disapproval of the doer towards the same action when performed by others.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of sincerity in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:139), Allah says,

Say, 'Do you argue with us about Allah while He is our Lord and your Lord? For us are our deeds, and for you are your deeds. And we are sincere [in deed and intention] to Him.'

This verse highlights the individual responsibility for one's own actions and the need for sincerity towards Allah.

Furthermore, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of unity and brotherhood among Muslims. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah says,

The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers.

This verse emphasizes the unity and harmony that should exist within the Muslim community. It is essential for Muslims to support and encourage one another, rather than harboring dislike or hatred towards each other's actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound advice in this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their intentions and actions. It warns against the hypocrisy of performing an action for personal satisfaction while disliking others who engage in the same action. This hypocrisy not only undermines sincerity but also weakens the unity and brotherhood within the Muslim community.

For example, if a person prays regularly and feels pleased with their own devotion, but looks down upon others who may not pray as frequently or in the same manner, they are falling into the trap mentioned in this Hadith. This attitude contradicts the teachings of Islam, which emphasize compassion, understanding, and unity among Muslims. Instead, Muslims should strive to encourage and support one another in their acts of worship, fostering a sense of unity and brotherhood.

The consequences of disregarding this advice can be detrimental to both individuals and the Muslim community as a whole. It can lead to arrogance, division, and a lack of empathy towards fellow Muslims. Such attitudes not only weaken the fabric of the community but also hinder the progress and development of the ummah.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should strive to purify their intentions and actions, ensuring that they are sincerely performed for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and not driven by personal ego or superiority. They should also cultivate a sense of unity and brotherhood, supporting and encouraging one another in their righteous deeds. By doing so, Muslims can strengthen their bond as a community and uphold the true spirit of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to sincerity in our actions and unite us as a strong and compassionate Muslim community.