Hadith #9915

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,

لاسَوْأَةَ أقْبَحُ مِنَ المَنِّ۔

This can be translated as,

There is no evil quality more repulsive than [putting others under] obligation.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quran. The key word in this Hadith is (al-mann) "المَنِّ", which refers to the act of obligating or burdening someone with favors or debts. This word carries a negative connotation, as it implies a sense of superiority and control over others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the repulsiveness of this quality and its detrimental effects on both the giver and the receiver.

To understand the gravity of this statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:264)

O you who have believed, do not invalidate your charities with reminders or injury as does one who spends his wealth [only] to be seen by the people and does not believe in Allah and the Last Day.

This verse warns against giving charity with the intention of seeking recognition or control over others. It emphasizes the importance of sincerity and selflessness in our acts of kindness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Balad, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 90:12-16)

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 virtues of helping those in need without expecting anything in return. They emphasize the importance of relieving the burdens of others and promoting social justice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that the act of obligating others creates an unhealthy power dynamic and diminishes the value of our good deeds. When we help others solely to gain control or manipulate them, we tarnish the purity of our intentions and nullify the blessings of our actions. This behavior not only harms the recipient but also damages our own spiritual growth and character development.

Putting others under obligation can lead to a sense of entitlement and superiority, which goes against the teachings of Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) tells us in the Quran, (Quran 31:18)

And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse reminds us to be humble and treat others with respect and kindness, without seeking to exert control or dominance over them.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, is guiding us towards a path of righteousness and selflessness. He is urging us to reflect on our intentions and actions, reminding us that true goodness lies in helping others without expecting anything in return. By avoiding the act of obligating others, we can foster a spirit of equality, compassion, and genuine care within our communities.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the repulsiveness of putting others under obligation. It warns against seeking control and superiority over others through acts of kindness. Instead, it encourages us to help others selflessly, without expecting anything in return. By following this guidance, we can cultivate a society based on justice, humility, and genuine care for one another. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand and implement these teachings in our lives.