Hadith #907

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

إنَّكَ مُقَوَّمٌ بأدَبِكَ، فَزَيِّنْهُ بالحِلمِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of etiquette and manners in the life of a Muslim. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its connotation in light of the Quran.

The word (muqawwam) "مُقَوَّمٌ" in this Hadith refers to being gauged or judged. It implies that a person's character and conduct are measured by their etiquette. Our actions and behavior are a reflection of our inner selves, and they play a significant role in shaping our relationships with others and our standing in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To (zayyinhu) "زَيِّنْهُ" means to beautify or adorn. In the context of this Hadith, it signifies enhancing our etiquette with forbearance or patience, which is the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity or provocation. By adorning our etiquette with forbearance, we elevate our character and demonstrate a higher level of self-control and maturity.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of good manners and etiquettes. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the importance of respecting and honoring others, regardless of their background or status. It teaches us to refrain from ridiculing or insulting others, as it goes against the principles of good manners and etiquettes. By practicing forbearance, we can respond to others with kindness and understanding, even in challenging situations.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-A'raf (7:199), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Take what is given freely, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant.

This verse encourages us to respond to ignorance and negativity with patience and wisdom. By doing so, we can maintain our composure and avoid engaging in futile arguments or confrontations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was renowned for his knowledge and wisdom. His etiquette and forbearance were exemplary, even in the most challenging circumstances. One of the most profound examples of his forbearance is seen during the Battle of Jamal, where he displayed immense patience and forgiveness towards those who had opposed him. Despite being in a position of power, he chose to prioritize reconciliation and unity over vengeance.

The exegesis of this Hadith reminds us that our etiquette and manners are not only a reflection of our character but also a means of attaining nearness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By adorning our etiquette with forbearance, we cultivate a sense of humility, compassion, and empathy towards others. This, in turn, strengthens our relationships and fosters a harmonious society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that our etiquette is a measure of our character. By beautifying our etiquette with forbearance, we not only enhance our own conduct but also contribute to the betterment of society. Let us strive to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and adorn our interactions with patience, kindness, and understanding. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these noble qualities and seek His pleasure through our actions.