Hadith #2368

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "بِالإحْسانِ تُمْلَكُ الأحْرارُ۔" which translates to

Through kindness, freemen are owned.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the power and significance of kindness in the lives of free individuals.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (ihsan) "إحْسانِ" refers to acts of kindness, goodness, and excellence. It encompasses going above and beyond in one's actions, treating others with compassion, and displaying virtuous behavior. (tumliku) "تُمْلَكُ" means to possess or own, indicating that through acts of kindness, individuals attain a sense of mastery and control over their own lives.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of spending in the way of Allah and doing good deeds, which are manifestations of kindness. By engaging in acts of kindness, we not only benefit others but also earn the love and pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse emphasizes the importance of cooperation in acts of righteousness and piety, which inherently involve kindness. By working together to promote goodness, we create an environment where kindness flourishes and freemen are empowered.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the transformative power of kindness. When individuals consistently practice acts of kindness, they not only positively impact the lives of others but also experience a sense of empowerment and freedom within themselves. Kindness is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a reflection of inner strength and nobility.

Through acts of kindness, individuals cultivate a sense of empathy, compassion, and understanding. They become more aware of the needs and struggles of those around them, and strive to alleviate their suffering. This leads to the formation of stronger bonds within society, fostering a sense of unity and harmony.

Kindness also has a ripple effect. When one person performs an act of kindness, it inspires others to do the same. This creates a chain reaction of goodness, spreading positivity and uplifting the collective spirit of the community. By owning the power of kindness, individuals become leaders in their own right, influencing others to follow their example.

Moreover, kindness has the ability to transform relationships. When individuals treat others with kindness, they foster an atmosphere of trust, respect, and love. This strengthens the bonds between individuals, families, and communities. It creates an environment where people feel safe, supported, and valued. Through acts of kindness, individuals become the owners of harmonious and fulfilling relationships.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that through kindness, freemen are owned. Kindness is a powerful tool that empowers individuals, strengthens relationships, and fosters a sense of unity within society. By practicing acts of kindness, we not only benefit others but also experience a profound transformation within ourselves. Let us strive to embody the spirit of kindness in our daily lives, and in doing so, become the owners of our own freedom and happiness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of kindness and grant us the strength to practice it consistently.