Hadith #440

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,

مَوَدَّةُ الآباءِ نَسَبٌ بَيْنَ الأبناءِ۔

This can be translated as,

The affection of parents is [the basis of] the relationship between siblings.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it encompasses. The word (mawaddah) "مَوَدَّةُ" refers to deep affection, love, and kindness. It signifies a strong bond and emotional connection between individuals. (al-abaa) "الآباءِ" refers to parents, who are the source of our existence and the foundation of our upbringing. (nasab) "نَسَبٌ" refers to lineage or kinship, representing the blood ties that connect siblings. Finally, (al-abnaa) "الأبناءِ" refers to children or offspring, who share a common lineage through their parents.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong family ties and treating parents with utmost respect and kindness. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 23, Allah says, (Quran 17:23)

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse highlights the obligation to treat parents with kindness and respect, even in old age. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a loving and caring relationship with our parents. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty towards them but also lay the foundation for strong bonds between siblings.

The affection and love that parents show towards their children create a sense of unity and closeness among siblings. When children witness their parents' love and care, they learn to emulate these qualities in their relationships with one another. This love becomes the basis of their connection, fostering a sense of belonging and unity within the family.

Moreover, the love and affection between parents and children have far-reaching consequences. It shapes the character and behavior of individuals, influencing their interactions with others. When children grow up in an environment filled with love and compassion, they are more likely to exhibit these qualities in their relationships with others. This Hadith reminds us of the immense impact that parental love has on the overall harmony and well-being of society.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that it emphasizes the importance of nurturing a loving and caring environment within our families. It reminds us to appreciate the affection of our parents and to reciprocate it by fostering strong bonds with our siblings. By doing so, we not only strengthen our family ties but also contribute to the establishment of a harmonious society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the affection of parents is the foundation of the relationship between siblings. It highlights the significance of parental love and care in shaping the bonds within a family. By recognizing and nurturing this affection, we can foster unity, love, and compassion within our families and society at large. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to appreciate and reciprocate the love of our parents, and may He guide us in establishing strong and loving relationships with our siblings.