Hadith #3511

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:

دارِ النَّاسَ تَأمَنْ غَوائِلَهُمْ، وتَسْلَمْ مِنْ مَكائِدِهِمْ۔

This can be translated as:

Be amicable with the people and you will be secure from their tribulations and will remain safe from their sly plots.

In this Hadith, there are a few important words that require our attention. The word (ta'man) "تَأمَنْ" means to be secure or safe, while (ghawailahum) "غَوائِلَهُمْ" refers to the tribulations or calamities that people may bring upon themselves or others. The word (taslam) "تَسْلَمْ" means to be safe or protected, and (maka'idihim) "مَكائِدِهِمْ" refers to the sly plots or schemes that people may devise.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10):

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with others and resolving conflicts among believers. By being amicable and peaceful with others, we create an atmosphere of trust and unity, which leads to a sense of security and protection from the tribulations that may arise from discord and animosity.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195):

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the significance of having Taqwa, which encompasses being conscious of Allah's commands and avoiding sinful behavior. When we interact with others in a kind and amicable manner, we demonstrate our piety and fear of Allah, which in turn protects us from falling into the sly plots and schemes of those who may harbor ill intentions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be amicable with people, not only for the sake of maintaining good relations but also as a means of safeguarding ourselves. When we treat others with kindness, respect, and empathy, we build bridges of trust and understanding. This not only protects us from the harm that others may inflict upon us but also shields us from the negative consequences of their deceitful plans.

For example, imagine a scenario where someone harbors ill feelings towards you and seeks to harm you. However, due to your amicable nature and good character, they find it difficult to carry out their plans. They may even reconsider their intentions and choose a path of reconciliation instead. By being amicable, you have not only protected yourself from harm but also potentially influenced the other person positively.

On a broader scale, when individuals and communities adopt the principle of amicability, it leads to a harmonious society where people feel safe and secure. This fosters an environment of trust, cooperation, and mutual respect, which are essential for the progress and well-being of any society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of being amicable with others. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves from the tribulations and sly plots of others but also contribute to the creation of a peaceful and secure society. Let us strive to embody the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family, including Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), by treating others with kindness, respect, and empathy. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to navigate the challenges of life with grace and compassion.