Hadith #947

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights three essential qualities that every Muslim should strive to possess and continuously seek to improve upon. These qualities are: good etiquette, avoidance of suspicion, and abstinence from all that is forbidden.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first quality mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is "husn al-adab," which translates to "good etiquette" or "excellent manners." This encompasses all aspects of behavior, speech, and actions that reflect the teachings of Islam. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and compassion. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran:

(Quran 2:83)

And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.

This verse emphasizes the significance of good speech and conduct towards others. It encourages Muslims to choose their words wisely, be polite in their interactions, and maintain a positive attitude. Good etiquette is not limited to specific situations but should be practiced in all aspects of life, whether it be with family, friends, colleagues, or strangers.

The second quality mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is "mujanabat al-rayb," which can be translated as "avoidance of suspicion" or

refraining from doubtful matters.

This refers to the act of refraining from making baseless assumptions or having negative thoughts about others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us in the Quran:

(Quran 49:12)

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding suspicion and negative assumptions about others. It reminds us that such behavior is not only sinful but also harmful to the unity and harmony of the Muslim community. Instead, Muslims are encouraged to give others the benefit of the doubt, assume the best of intentions, and maintain a positive outlook.

The third and final quality mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is "kaffu 'an al-maharim," which means

abstinence from all that is forbidden.

This refers to refraining from engaging in any actions or behaviors that are prohibited in Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran:

(Quran 17:32)

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse highlights the importance of abstaining from unlawful sexual acts, which is just one example of the many prohibitions in Islam. Abstinence from what is forbidden extends to all aspects of life, including avoiding dishonesty, theft, backbiting, and any other actions that go against the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of these three qualities to emphasize the importance of continuously seeking improvement in our character and behavior. By embodying good etiquette, avoiding suspicion, and abstaining from what is forbidden, we not only fulfill our obligations as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to strive for excellence in their manners, thoughts, and actions. It encourages us to be mindful of our interactions with others, to refrain from negative assumptions, and to adhere to the teachings of Islam. By embodying these qualities, we can cultivate a harmonious and virtuous society, pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to embody these qualities and seek continuous improvement in our character and conduct.