Hadith #2456

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

مَنْ كافَيَ الإحْسانَ بِالإسائَةِ فَقَدْ بَرِيَ مِنَ المُرُوَّةِ۔

This Hadith is a wise utterance that highlights the importance of responding to goodness with goodness and not repaying it with evil.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (kafaya) "كافَيَ" means to repay or to respond in kind. (al-ihsan) "الإحْسانَ" refers to acts of goodness, kindness, and excellence. (bil-isa'ah) "بِالإسائَةِ" means with evil or with harm. Finally, (al-murwwah) "المُرُوَّةِ" refers to magnanimity, nobility, and generosity.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Fussilat (41:34),

And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.

This verse emphasizes the superiority of responding to evil with goodness. It teaches us that the reward for a good deed is far greater than the punishment for a bad deed. By repelling evil with that which is better, we can transform our enemies into friends and foster harmony in society.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of treating others with righteousness and justice, even if they hold different beliefs or do not pose a threat to us. It encourages us to respond to goodness with goodness, regardless of the circumstances.

Now, let us reflect on the meaning of Imam Ali's statement. When someone repays kindness with evil, they have rid themselves of magnanimity. Magnanimity is a noble quality that encompasses generosity, forgiveness, and the ability to rise above petty grievances. It is the mark of a person who possesses a high level of moral character and spiritual maturity.

By responding to goodness with evil, one not only fails to appreciate the value of the original act of kindness but also diminishes their own character. They lose the opportunity to grow spiritually and to foster positive relationships with others. Instead of spreading love and compassion, they perpetuate a cycle of negativity and animosity.

Imam Ali's statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the teachings of the Quran and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It urges us to respond to acts of goodness with gratitude, kindness, and magnanimity. By doing so, we can cultivate a society that is built upon the principles of love, compassion, and justice.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of responding to goodness with goodness and not repaying it with evil. It reminds us of the Quranic teachings that encourage us to repel evil with that which is better and to treat others with righteousness and justice. By embodying these principles, we can elevate our character, foster positive relationships, and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of magnanimity and righteousness.