Hadith #6673

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "مَنْ أبْغَضَكَ أغْراكَ۔" This can be translated as,

One who hates you incites you [to wrongdoing].

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Holy Quran.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, it is important to reflect upon the key words used. The word (abghadaka) "أبْغَضَكَ" refers to someone who harbors hatred towards another person. This deep-rooted animosity can manifest in various ways, including through actions, words, or even thoughts. The word (aghraqa) "أغْراكَ" means to incite or provoke someone towards wrongdoing. It implies that the one who hates you will try to lead you astray or entice you into committing sinful acts.

The Quran provides us with several verses that shed light on the consequences of harboring hatred and the tactics used by those who despise others. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:64), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the treacherous nature of those who harbor enmity towards the believers. He says,

And the Jews say, 'The hand of Allah is chained.' Chained are their hands, and cursed are they for what they say. Rather, both His hands are extended; He spends however He wills. And that which has been revealed to you from your Lord will surely increase many of them in transgression and disbelief. And We have cast among them animosity and hatred until the Day of Resurrection. Every time they kindled the fire of war [against you], Allah extinguished it. And they strive throughout the land [causing] corruption, and Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse highlights the consequences of harboring hatred and the negative impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole. Those who hate others are prone to spreading falsehoods and inciting mischief. However, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to protect the believers and extinguish the fires of war ignited by the enemies.

Another verse that complements the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Imran (3:118). Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, do not take as intimates those other than yourselves, for they will not spare you [any] ruin. They wish you would have hardship. Hatred has already appeared from their mouths, and what their breasts conceal is greater. We have certainly made clear to you the signs, if you will use reason.

This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing our companions wisely and being cautious of those who harbor animosity towards us. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us that such individuals will not hesitate to cause harm and ruin. Their hatred is evident in their words, and their true intentions may be even more sinister. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to be discerning and surround themselves with righteous companions who will guide them towards goodness.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be vigilant and aware of the negative influence of those who harbor hatred towards them. It highlights the fact that those who despise us are more likely to incite us towards wrongdoing. This can be seen in various aspects of life, such as when individuals spread false rumors, engage in backbiting, or encourage us to engage in sinful behavior.

To protect ourselves from falling into the traps set by those who hate us, we must strive to cultivate love, compassion, and forgiveness in our hearts. We should seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By doing so, we can resist the negative influence of hatred and instead focus on nurturing positive relationships and striving towards righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious of those who harbor hatred towards them. It warns us about the detrimental consequences of falling into the traps set by such individuals. By seeking guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can protect ourselves from the negative influence of hatred and strive towards righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate through the challenges of life and maintain steadfastness on the path of truth.