Hadith #3440

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 consequences of making bad choices in our lives. It states that among these bad choices are seeking to overpower one's equals and making enmity with people. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (mughalabat) "مُغالَبَةُ" in the Hadith refers to seeking to overpower or dominate others. This can manifest in various ways, such as trying to control or manipulate others, disregarding their opinions, or using one's power or authority to oppress them. The word (al-aqfa) "الأكْفاءِ" refers to those who are equal or competent to oneself. Therefore, the Hadith warns against the negative consequences of trying to overpower or dominate those who are on the same level as us.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse reminds us that justice should prevail even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. Seeking to overpower or dominate others goes against the principles of justice and fairness that Allah has commanded us to uphold. It leads to an imbalance of power and can result in oppression and injustice.

Furthermore, the Hadith warns against making enmity with people. Enmity refers to harboring feelings of hostility, animosity, or hatred towards others. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with others and avoiding enmity. 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 highlights the importance of brotherhood and unity among believers. It encourages us to reconcile and make peace between our fellow Muslims, rather than harboring enmity towards them. Making enmity with people not only disrupts the harmony within the Muslim community but also goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize love, compassion, and forgiveness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the negative consequences of these bad choices. Seeking to overpower others and making enmity with people can lead to a breakdown in relationships, the spread of animosity, and the erosion of trust within society. It creates an environment of hostility and division, which is contrary to the teachings of Islam.

As Muslims, we are encouraged to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) who was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. He exemplified the qualities of justice, fairness, and compassion in his interactions with others. His teachings and actions serve as a guide for us to make wise choices and maintain harmonious relationships with our fellow Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of making good choices in our lives. It warns against seeking to overpower others and making enmity with people, as these actions go against the principles of justice, fairness, and unity that Islam promotes. May Allah guide us to make wise choices and enable us to foster harmonious relationships with our fellow Muslims.