Hadith #762

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

إخْتَرْمِنْ كُلِّ شَيْء جَديدَهُ، ومِنَ الإخوانِ أقدَمَهَمْ۔

This Hadith encourages us to choose what is new in everything, except when it comes to our brothers, where we should give preference to those who are older.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining its key words. The word (Iktarim) "اخترم" means to choose or prefer, while (kull) "كلّ" signifies everything or all. (jadeed) "جديد" refers to what is new or fresh, and (ikhwan) "اخوان" means brothers. Lastly, (aqsam) "اقدم" denotes the oldest or the one who came first.

To understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Isra (17:70), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse highlights Allah's preference for human beings over other creations, emphasizing their honor and superiority.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 emphasizes the importance of knowing and recognizing one another, regardless of our differences in race, ethnicity, or social status.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. When it comes to matters of knowledge, progress, and innovation, we are encouraged to embrace what is new and fresh. This encourages us to seek knowledge, explore new ideas, and adapt to the changing world around us. Islam has always emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge and being at the forefront of progress and development.

However, when it comes to our relationships with our brothers and sisters in faith, we are advised to give preference to those who are older. This does not mean that we should disregard or neglect the younger members of our community, but rather it highlights the importance of respecting and valuing the wisdom and experience of our elders. The older members of our community have a wealth of knowledge and life experiences that we can learn from and benefit from their guidance.

By giving preference to our older brothers and sisters, we foster a sense of unity, respect, and continuity within our communities. We acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices made by those who came before us, and we honor their wisdom and experience. This also helps to bridge the generation gap and ensures that the knowledge and traditions of our faith are passed down from one generation to the next.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to embrace what is new and fresh in matters of knowledge and progress. However, when it comes to our relationships with our brothers and sisters in faith, we are advised to give preference to those who are older, respecting their wisdom and experience. This Hadith teaches us the importance of balance, unity, and continuity within our communities, as we strive to seek knowledge and progress while honoring the contributions of those who came before us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in following the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the wisdom to apply these lessons in our lives.