Hadith #7916

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 noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of fulfilling promises and the consequences of breaking them. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares promises to metal collars around the necks of people, emphasizing their binding nature and the lasting impact they have until the Day of Resurrection.

The Arabic word (promises) "عُهُودَ" refers to agreements, commitments, or covenants made between individuals. These promises are not to be taken lightly, as they hold immense weight and significance in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They serve as a means of establishing trust, maintaining social harmony, and upholding justice within society.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of fulfilling promises in the Quran. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 34, Allah says,

And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

This verse highlights that every promise made will be questioned and held accountable for on the Day of Judgment. It serves as a reminder to Muslims of the seriousness and gravity of fulfilling their commitments.

Another verse that supports the importance of fulfilling promises is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 1. Allah says,

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts.

This verse emphasizes the obligation upon believers to fulfill their contracts and promises, further emphasizing the significance of honoring one's word.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) explains that those who fulfill their promises will be rewarded by Allah. They will be delivered and protected by Allah's mercy and blessings. This reward not only applies to the fulfillment of promises made to Allah but also extends to promises made to fellow human beings. By fulfilling our commitments, we strengthen the bonds of trust and foster a sense of reliability and integrity within society.

Conversely, those who break their promises will be forsaken by Allah. This abandonment by Allah signifies the withdrawal of His divine support and blessings. Breaking promises not only damages relationships and erodes trust but also invites divine displeasure and consequences.

Furthermore, the Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against taking promises lightly. When one trivializes or underestimates the importance of fulfilling promises, they are essentially challenging the authority of the One who has enjoined these commitments. By doing so, they invite conflict and dispute, as the plea of the aggrieved party will be taken to the One who has mandated the fulfillment of promises.

This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of upholding their word and fulfilling their commitments. It highlights the ethical and moral responsibility that comes with making promises. By honoring our commitments, we strengthen our relationships, build trust, and contribute to the overall well-being of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of fulfilling promises and warns against the consequences of breaking them. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which stress the importance of fulfilling commitments and highlight the accountability we will face on the Day of Judgment. As Muslims, it is our duty to uphold our promises, both to Allah and to our fellow human beings, in order to maintain trust, justice, and harmony in society. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to fulfill our promises and seek His pleasure.