Hadith #786

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who has no brother (or brotherhood) has no goodness in him.

This enlightening saying emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and its connection to goodness. To fully understand the depth of this hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used.

The word (la) "لا" in Arabic is a negation, indicating the absence or lack of something. In this context, it signifies the absence of a brother or brotherhood. The term (akh) "أخا" refers to a brother or the bond of brotherhood. It encompasses the concept of unity, love, and support among believers.

To comprehend the significance of brotherhood in Islam, we turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of unity and brotherhood among Muslims. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the obligation to maintain harmonious relationships and resolve conflicts among fellow believers.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 70, Allah states,

And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse highlights the inherent dignity and honor bestowed upon all human beings, emphasizing the equality and unity among them.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith emphasizes that one who lacks brotherhood, or fails to establish and maintain strong bonds of unity and support with fellow Muslims, lacks goodness within themselves. This statement serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering brotherhood and unity within the Muslim community.

When individuals embrace brotherhood, they create an environment of love, compassion, and support. They stand together in times of difficulty, offering assistance and guidance. This unity strengthens the community, enabling it to face challenges and achieve collective goals.

On the other hand, when brotherhood is absent, individuals become isolated, self-centered, and disconnected from the larger Muslim community. This lack of unity leads to division, animosity, and a weakened community. Without brotherhood, individuals are unable to fully embody the values and teachings of Islam, which emphasize compassion, empathy, and selflessness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively cultivate brotherhood and unity in their lives. It encourages them to reach out to their fellow believers, build strong relationships, and support one another. By doing so, they not only fulfill their duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and its connection to goodness. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively cultivate unity, love, and support within the Muslim community. By embracing brotherhood, individuals strengthen their faith, contribute to the well-being of others, and create a harmonious and prosperous society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to embody the spirit of brotherhood and goodness in our lives.