Hadith #1729

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, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

External beauty is [in possessing] good looks.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (jamal) "جَمَال" in Arabic refers to beauty, while (dhahir) "ظَاهِر" means external or apparent. The term (husn al-sura) "حُسْنُ الصُّورَةِ" translates to good looks or physical appearance. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the significance of external beauty and its role in our lives.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of beauty in various contexts. For instance, in Surah Al-Hajj (22:5), Allah says,

O mankind, if you should be in doubt about the resurrection, then [consider that] indeed, We created you from dust, then from a sperm-drop, then from a clinging clot, and then from a lump of flesh, formed and unformed - that We may show you. And We settle in the wombs whom We will for a specified term, then We bring you out as a child, and then [We develop you] that you may reach your [time of] maturity. And among you is he who is taken in [early] death, and among you is he who is returned to the most decrepit [old] age so that he knows, after [once having] knowledge, nothing. And you see the earth barren, but when We send down upon it rain, it quivers and swells and grows [something] of every beautiful kind.

This verse highlights the beauty of Allah's creation and the various stages of human development. It reminds us that beauty is a manifestation of Allah's power and wisdom. It also emphasizes the temporary nature of physical beauty, as it fades with time.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the importance of inner beauty and strength, which is far more valuable than external appearances.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is not dismissing the significance of external beauty but rather highlighting its limited nature. He encourages us to recognize that true beauty lies not only in physical appearance but also in the goodness of character, piety, and moral conduct. While external beauty may capture attention momentarily, it is the inner beauty that leaves a lasting impact on others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge, wisdom, and piety. His physical appearance was not the primary source of his beauty; rather, it was his profound understanding of Islam, his unwavering faith, and his exemplary character that made him truly beautiful. Muslims should strive to emulate his qualities and prioritize the development of their inner beauty.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that external beauty is not the ultimate measure of a person's worth. While it is important to take care of our physical appearance, we should not neglect the cultivation of inner beauty. True beauty lies in embodying the teachings of Islam, demonstrating kindness, compassion, and righteousness in our actions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to prioritize inner beauty and grant us the ability to reflect the true beauty of Islam in our lives.