Hadith #7864

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,

الْوَفَاءُ حِفْظُ الذَّمَامِ، وَالْمُرُوءَةُ تَعَهُّدُ ذَوِي الْأَرْحَامِ

This Hadith emphasizes two important qualities: loyalty and magnanimity. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (al-wafa) "الْوَفَاءُ" refers to loyalty, faithfulness, and fulfilling one's obligations. It entails being true to one's word, promises, and commitments. In the context of this Hadith, (hifz al-dhamaam) "حِفْظُ الذَّمَامِ" means preserving the rights and responsibilities entrusted to us. It encompasses safeguarding the rights of others, fulfilling our duties, and maintaining trustworthiness in all aspects of life.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of loyalty and fulfilling one's obligations. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:1), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts.

This verse highlights the significance of fulfilling one's commitments and honoring agreements. Loyalty is not only a moral virtue but also a religious duty for Muslims.

The second part of the Hadith states, (wa al-muroo'atu ta'ahhudh dhawi al-arham)

وَالْمُرُوءَةُ تَعَهُّدُ ذَوِي الْأَرْحَامِ

Here, (al-muroo'ah) "الْمُرُوءَةُ" refers to magnanimity, generosity, and kindness. It entails showing compassion and care towards one's close relatives, including immediate family members and extended kin.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong ties with relatives. In Surah An-Nisa (4:36), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the neighbor farther away, the companion at your side.

This verse highlights the significance of treating relatives with kindness and compassion.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the interconnection between loyalty and magnanimity. By preserving the rights of others, we demonstrate loyalty and fulfill our obligations. Simultaneously, by caring for our close relatives, we exhibit magnanimity and kindness. These qualities are intertwined and mutually reinforcing.

The consequences of practicing loyalty and magnanimity are far-reaching. When we fulfill our obligations and preserve the rights of others, we build trust and strengthen relationships. This fosters harmony and unity within families, communities, and societies. Moreover, by caring for our close relatives, we create a supportive and loving environment that promotes emotional well-being and social cohesion.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities towards others and maintaining strong ties with our relatives. It calls upon us to be loyal and trustworthy in all our dealings and to show kindness and generosity towards our family members. By embodying these qualities, we can contribute to the betterment of our communities and strive towards a society characterized by justice, compassion, and harmony.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice loyalty and magnanimity in our lives and strengthen our relationships with our relatives. May He guide us to fulfill our obligations and preserve the rights of others. Ameen.