Hadith #5011

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

لايَكْمُلُ السُّؤْدَدُ إلاّ بِتَحَمُّلِ الأثْقالِ وَ إسْداءِ الصَّنايِعِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of two qualities in attaining true eminence: bearing the burdens of others and performing good deeds.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (suddad) "سُّؤْدَدُ" refers to eminence, excellence, or perfection. It signifies reaching the pinnacle of moral and spiritual qualities. (tahammul al-athqal) "تَحَمُّلِ الأثْقالِ" means bearing the burdens or hardships of others. It implies taking on the difficulties and challenges faced by others and providing support and assistance. (isda' al-sana'i) "إسْداءِ الصَّنايِعِ" refers to performing good deeds or acts of kindness. It encompasses any action that brings benefit and goodness to others.

To understand the significance of bearing the burdens of others and performing good deeds, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Balad (90:11-16),

But he has not broken through the difficult pass. And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass? It is the freeing of a slave. Or feeding on a day of severe hunger. An orphan of near relationship. Or a needy person in misery.

These verses highlight the importance of helping those in need, whether it is by freeing slaves, feeding the hungry, supporting orphans, or assisting the needy. By bearing the burdens of others and performing good deeds, we not only alleviate their hardships but also attain a higher level of eminence and righteousness in the sight of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, exemplified these qualities throughout his life. He bore the burdens of the community by providing guidance, resolving disputes, and ensuring justice. His famous saying,

People are of two types: either your brothers in faith or your equals in humanity,

reflects his commitment to serving and uplifting others.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was renowned for his generosity and acts of kindness. He would often go out at night to distribute food and provisions to the poor and needy, without revealing his identity. His selflessness and dedication to helping others serve as an inspiration for Muslims to follow in his footsteps.

By bearing the burdens of others and performing good deeds, we not only fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings but also strengthen our relationship with Allah. These acts of kindness and selflessness are not only a means of attaining eminence in this world but also a means of attaining the pleasure of Allah and the ultimate reward in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of bearing the burdens of others and performing good deeds. By doing so, we not only help alleviate the hardships of those around us but also attain true eminence and righteousness in the sight of Allah. Let us strive to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and seek opportunities to serve and uplift others, for it is through these actions that we can truly perfect our eminence. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and enable us to embody the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).