Hadith #9220

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

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

It is not from the traits of a noble-minded person to wear the cloak of disgrace.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of maintaining one's dignity and honor. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (shiyam) "شِيَمِ" in the Hadith refers to the traits or characteristics of a noble person. It encompasses the qualities of honor, integrity, and nobility. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that a person with noble character should not engage in actions that bring disgrace upon themselves. The word (idra'u) "إدْراعُ" means to wear or put on, and (al-'ar) "العارِ" refers to disgrace or shame.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining one's honor and dignity. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

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 reminds us that belittling or mocking others is not befitting of a noble-minded person. Similarly, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against suspicion and backbiting, saying,

And avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse teaches us to refrain from engaging in gossip, spreading rumors, or speaking ill of others. Such actions not only tarnish our own character but also bring disgrace upon us. A noble-minded person, as emphasized by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), would never indulge in such behavior.

Furthermore, the Quran repeatedly highlights the importance of guarding one's tongue and speaking with wisdom and kindness. In Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse reminds us to choose our words carefully and speak in a manner that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encourages us to use our speech to promote goodness, unity, and understanding, rather than engaging in divisive or disrespectful conversations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to uphold their dignity and honor in all aspects of life. It urges us to refrain from engaging in actions or behaviors that bring disgrace upon ourselves and our community. By embodying the traits of a noble-minded person, we not only elevate our own character but also contribute to a more harmonious and respectful society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to uphold our dignity and honor, and may He bless us with the noble traits that reflect the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Ameen.