Hadith #4318

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,

بِصِلَةِ الرَّحِمِ تَسْتَدِرُّ النِّعَمُ۔

This can be translated as,

By keeping ties with near relatives, blessings flow forth [abundantly].

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (silah) "صِلَةِ" in this Hadith refers to maintaining and strengthening the bonds of kinship. It encompasses acts of kindness, compassion, and support towards one's relatives, both immediate and extended. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses emotional, financial, and social support. The word (rahim) "رَّحِمِ" refers to the womb, symbolizing the close familial ties that exist between individuals.

The importance of maintaining ties with relatives is emphasized in the Quran. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 1, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O mankind, fear your Lord, who created you from one soul and created from it its mate and dispersed from both of them many men and women. And fear Allah, through whom you ask one another, and the wombs. Indeed Allah is ever, over you, an Observer.

This verse highlights the unity of humanity and the interconnectedness of individuals through their common origin and familial ties.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 23-24, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, 'My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.'

These verses emphasize the importance of honoring and respecting one's parents, who are the closest relatives. It highlights the significance of maintaining good relations with them and treating them with kindness and respect.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes that by keeping ties with near relatives, blessings flow forth abundantly. When we maintain strong bonds with our relatives, we create an atmosphere of love, compassion, and support within our families. This fosters a sense of unity and harmony, leading to increased blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). These blessings can manifest in various forms, such as increased sustenance, protection from harm, and overall well-being.

By maintaining ties with our relatives, we also fulfill the teachings of Islam regarding social responsibility and community building. Islam encourages us to be actively involved in the lives of our relatives, offering them support and assistance when needed. This fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the fabric of society as a whole.

Moreover, when we maintain ties with our relatives, we set a positive example for future generations. Our children observe our actions and learn the importance of familial bonds and the value of maintaining relationships. This instills in them a sense of responsibility towards their own relatives and encourages them to continue the cycle of love and support.

Conversely, neglecting or severing ties with our relatives can have adverse consequences. It can lead to strained relationships, bitterness, and a breakdown of family unity. This not only affects individuals on a personal level but also has wider societal implications. It disrupts the natural order established by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and hinders the flow of blessings that come from maintaining strong familial bonds.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of maintaining ties with our near relatives. By doing so, we create an atmosphere of love, compassion, and support within our families, leading to increased blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a means of fulfilling our social responsibilities, setting a positive example for future generations, and fostering unity within our communities. Let us strive to strengthen our familial bonds and reap the abundant blessings that come from doing so. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in this endeavor.