Hadith #949

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,

مَنْ كَفَّ أذاهُ لَمْ يُعانِدْهُ أحدٌ۔

This can be translated as,

One who prevents himself from harming [others] will not be opposed [or hated] by anyone.

Let us now delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The key word in this Hadith is (adhahu) "أذاهُ", which refers to causing harm or injury to others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing the importance of restraining oneself from causing harm to others. This includes physical harm, as well as emotional, verbal, and psychological harm.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm and promoting peace and harmony among people. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 7:56)

And do not cause corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.

This verse highlights the need to refrain from causing harm and corruption in society. By doing so, we can maintain the blessings and mercy of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in our lives.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands us, (Quran 5:8)

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness, even towards those whom we may have disagreements or conflicts with. By refraining from causing harm and treating others with justice, we can avoid opposition and hatred from others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the profound consequences of our actions. When we harm others, whether physically or emotionally, we create a ripple effect that can lead to animosity, conflicts, and divisions within society. On the other hand, when we restrain ourselves from causing harm, we foster an environment of peace, unity, and mutual respect.

Let us reflect on the practical implications of this Hadith in our daily lives. When faced with a situation where we may be tempted to harm others, whether through our words or actions, let us remember the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By exercising self-restraint and choosing kindness and compassion, we can avoid unnecessary conflicts and promote a culture of peace and harmony.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to refrain from causing harm to others. By doing so, we can avoid opposition and hatred from others, and instead foster an environment of peace and unity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the strength to prevent ourselves from causing harm to others.