Hadith #9881

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,

مَنْ أحْسَنَ المَلَكَةَ أمِنَ الهَلَكَةَ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose disposition is good [with those who are under him] remains safe from annihilation.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (ahsana) "أحْسَنَ" means to excel, to be good, or to be kind. It implies going beyond what is expected and treating others with utmost goodness and excellence. The word (almalakah) "المَلَكَةَ" refers to one's disposition or behavior towards those who are under their authority or responsibility. It encompasses how one treats and interacts with others, especially those who are subordinate to them. And finally, the word (alhalakah) "الهَلَكَةَ" refers to annihilation, destruction, or ruin.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good character and treating others with kindness in several verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that the best among us are those who possess righteousness and piety. It is not based on one's lineage, wealth, or social status, but rather on their character and conduct. By treating others with kindness and fairness, we can foster unity and understanding among people, regardless of their differences.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah reminds us,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking in a good and kind manner. Our words have the power to either bring people together or create division. By choosing our words wisely and speaking with kindness, we can prevent conflicts and maintain harmony within our communities.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. He teaches us that one who excels in their behavior and treats those under their authority with goodness and kindness will be protected from annihilation. This Hadith highlights the significance of leadership and the responsibility that comes with it.

When a leader treats their subordinates with kindness and fairness, they create an environment of trust and respect. This fosters loyalty and dedication among those under their authority. As a result, the leader is shielded from destruction or ruin, both in this world and in the hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified this quality of good disposition and excellent behavior. His knowledge, wisdom, and justice were renowned, and he treated everyone, regardless of their social status, with kindness and fairness. His leadership was characterized by compassion, empathy, and a genuine concern for the well-being of those under his care.

By following the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the guidance of the Quran, we as Muslims can strive to embody this noble trait of good disposition. Whether we are in positions of authority or not, we can make a positive impact on those around us by treating them with kindness, fairness, and respect. This not only strengthens our relationships but also safeguards us from the perils of destruction and ruin.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of having a good disposition towards those under our authority. By treating others with kindness and excellence, we can create an atmosphere of harmony and protection. Let us strive to emulate the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and follow the teachings of the Quran in our interactions with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to excel in our behavior and protect us from annihilation.