Hadith #737

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَوتُ الأخِ قَصُّ الجَناحِ واليَدِ۔

This can be translated as,

Death of a brother is like having wings clipped and hands cut.

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (death) "مَوتُ" signifies the end of physical life, the separation of the soul from the body. It is a natural phenomenon that every human being will experience. However, the Hadith highlights the emotional impact of losing a brother, emphasizing the pain and sorrow that accompanies such a loss.

The phrase (having wings clipped and hands cut) "قَصُّ الجَناحِ واليَدِ" is a metaphorical expression used to vividly depict the profound impact of losing a brother. Just as wings enable a bird to soar high in the sky, a brother provides support, protection, and companionship. Losing a brother is like having one's wings clipped, leaving one feeling grounded and unable to reach their full potential. Similarly, hands symbolize strength, assistance, and the ability to accomplish tasks. Losing a brother is like having one's hands cut, leaving one feeling helpless and deprived of the support they once had.

The Quran provides us with guidance and examples that shed light on the significance of brotherhood and the impact of losing a brother. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers.

This verse emphasizes the unity and bond among believers, highlighting the importance of brotherhood in Islam. The loss of a brother disrupts this unity and creates a void that cannot be easily filled.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:233), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Mothers may breastfeed their children two complete years for whoever wishes to complete the nursing [period].

This verse highlights the nurturing and caring role of a brother, as they often provide support and guidance throughout one's life. Losing a brother means losing this source of love, care, and guidance, leaving one feeling bereft and vulnerable.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us the profound impact of losing a brother. It reminds us of the importance of cherishing and nurturing the relationships we have with our brothers and sisters in faith. It also serves as a reminder to support and be there for one another, as the loss of a brother can have far-reaching consequences on an individual's emotional well-being and sense of belonging.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the beautiful qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), particularly his deep knowledge and wisdom. His words resonate with us, as he eloquently captures the emotional turmoil that accompanies the loss of a brother. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound understanding of human emotions and his ability to express them in such powerful metaphors is a testament to his wisdom and insight.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the immense impact that the loss of a brother can have on an individual's life. It serves as a call to cherish and nurture the relationships we have with our brothers and sisters in faith, and to provide support and solace to one another in times of need. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to strengthen our bonds of brotherhood and to console those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.