Hadith #9702

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he identifies three qualities that encompass the essence of magnanimity or nobility. These qualities are: lowering one's gaze, lowering one's voice, and walking with modesty. Let us delve into the meanings and implications of these qualities in light of the Quran.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions "غَضُّ الطَّرْفِ" which translates to "lowering one's gaze." This refers to the act of averting one's eyes from that which is inappropriate or forbidden. The Quran emphasizes the importance of this quality in several verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nur (24:30),

Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do.

This verse highlights the significance of lowering one's gaze as a means of preserving one's purity and guarding against immoral thoughts and actions.

Secondly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions "غَضُّ الصَّوْتِ" which means "lowering one's voice." This refers to speaking in a calm and gentle manner, avoiding loud and harsh tones. The Quran encourages believers to adopt this quality in Surah Luqman (31:19), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys.

This verse teaches us the importance of speaking softly and respectfully, as it reflects a person's inner composure and self-control.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions "مَشْيُ القَصْدِ" which means "walking with modesty." This refers to the way one carries themselves, with humility and grace. The Quran emphasizes the virtue of humility in Surah Al-Isra (17:37), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth apart, and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse reminds us that true nobility lies in recognizing our humble status as servants of Allah and conducting ourselves with modesty and humility.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights these three qualities as manifestations of magnanimity because they reflect a person's self-discipline, self-control, and respect for others. By lowering one's gaze, one safeguards their own purity and avoids objectifying others. By lowering one's voice, one demonstrates respect and consideration for others, fostering an atmosphere of tranquility and harmony. And by walking with modesty, one embodies humility and acknowledges their dependence on Allah.

The consequences of embodying these qualities are profound. By practicing these virtues, Muslims can cultivate a society that is characterized by purity, tranquility, and respect. Lowering one's gaze helps to protect individuals from falling into sin and promotes a culture of modesty and chastity. Lowering one's voice fosters effective communication and prevents conflicts and misunderstandings. Walking with modesty creates an environment of humility and compassion, where individuals treat each other with dignity and respect.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of embodying these qualities in our daily lives. By following the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and adhering to the teachings of the Quran, we can strive towards magnanimity and contribute to the betterment of our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to lower our gaze, lower our voice, and walk with modesty, and may He bless us with the strength to embody these qualities in all aspects of our lives.