Hadith #3245

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "خَيْرُ الشِّيَمِ أرْضاها۔" This can be translated into English as,

The best of qualities is the most agreeable of them.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (shaym) "شِّيَمِ" refers to qualities or characteristics. It encompasses the various traits that a person possesses, such as honesty, kindness, patience, and humility. The word (ardaha) "أرْضاها" means the most agreeable or pleasing. It signifies that the best quality is the one that is most pleasing to others and brings about harmony and positivity in relationships.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good character and noble qualities in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah says,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the exceptional character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who serves as a role model for all Muslims. It emphasizes the significance of cultivating virtuous qualities in ourselves.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah states,

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 our lineage or social status that determines our worth, but rather our character and actions.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that the best qualities are those that bring about goodness and harmony in our interactions with others. It is not enough to possess good qualities internally; they must also manifest in our behavior and treatment of others.

For example, a person may possess knowledge, but if they do not use it to benefit others or if they use it to belittle and demean others, then their knowledge loses its value. On the other hand, a person who possesses humility, kindness, and empathy, and uses these qualities to uplift and support others, is truly embodying the best of qualities.

The consequences of embodying the best of qualities are far-reaching. When we prioritize developing and nurturing virtuous traits, we create an environment of love, respect, and compassion. Our relationships become stronger, and we become a source of inspiration and guidance for others. Our actions align with the teachings of Islam, and we become ambassadors of the faith, spreading goodness and positivity wherever we go.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best of qualities are those that are most agreeable and pleasing to others. By embodying these qualities, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society. Let us strive to cultivate the best of qualities within ourselves and inspire others to do the same. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the noble qualities that are pleasing to Him and beneficial to humanity.