Hadith #8169

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the gravity of a person's mistake or harshness towards someone who is friendly towards them. The key words in this Hadith are (ghalathu) "غَلَطُ" and (ahzar) "أحْظَرُ".

The word (ghalathu) "غَلَطُ" refers to a mistake, error, or fault. It implies a deviation from what is right or appropriate. In the context of this Hadith, it signifies a person's incorrect perception or treatment of someone who is extending friendship or kindness towards them. This mistake can manifest in various forms, such as misunderstanding their intentions, misjudging their character, or responding with harshness instead of gratitude.

On the other hand, the word (ahzar) "أحْظَرُ" conveys the idea of prohibition or forbiddenness. It signifies that the mistake or harshness towards a friendly person is one of the most forbidden things for an individual. It emphasizes the severity and gravity of such behavior, highlighting its moral and ethical implications.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness, forgiveness, and maintaining good relations with others. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah says,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and maintaining harmonious relationships among believers.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah instructs the believers,

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 obligation of treating others with righteousness and justice, even if they hold different beliefs or do not pose a threat.

The consequences of mistreating or being harsh towards someone who is friendly towards us can be far-reaching. It can strain relationships, create animosity, and lead to a breakdown in trust and goodwill. Moreover, it goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of compassion, forgiveness, and maintaining good relations with others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the gravity of this mistake. His words serve as a reminder to Muslims of all backgrounds that we should be cautious in our interactions with others, especially those who extend friendship towards us. We should strive to understand their intentions, appreciate their kindness, and respond with gratitude and kindness in return.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should ask ourselves if we have ever made the mistake of misjudging or being harsh towards someone who was extending friendship towards us. We should strive to rectify our behavior and seek forgiveness from those we may have wronged. By doing so, we not only fulfill the teachings of Islam but also contribute to fostering a more harmonious and compassionate society.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be mindful of our interactions with others and grant us the wisdom to treat everyone with kindness, respect, and gratitude.