Hadith #2582

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) emphasizes the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships and unity within the Muslim community. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to avoid certain negative behaviors that can lead to division and discord among believers.

The first phrase in the Hadith is "تَجَنَّبُوا تَضَاغُنَ القُلُوبِ" which can be translated as

Keep away from harbouring grudges against each other.

This highlights the need to let go of any ill feelings or resentment towards our fellow Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 5:2)

And let not a people's animosity towards you lead them to transgress against themselves. And help one another in righteousness and piety, but do not help one another in sin and aggression

By avoiding grudges, we can foster a sense of unity and cooperation within the Muslim community.

The next phrase in the Hadith is "وَتَشَاحُنَ الصُّدُورِ" which can be translated as "hating each other." This refers to the destructive emotion of hatred that can poison relationships and create divisions among Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 3:103)

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided

Hatred only serves to weaken the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that should exist among Muslims.

The third phrase in the Hadith is "وَتَدَابُرَ النُّفُوسِ" which can be translated as

quarrelling with one another.

Quarrelling and disputes can lead to a breakdown in communication and understanding. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us in the Quran, (Quran 49:9)

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah

It is important for Muslims to resolve conflicts peacefully and seek reconciliation rather than engaging in quarrels that can further divide the community.

The fourth phrase in the Hadith is "وَتَخَاذُلَ الأَيْدِي" which can be translated as

not lending a supporting hand to each other.

This refers to the lack of assistance and support that should be extended to fellow Muslims in times of need. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 5:2)

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression

Muslims should strive to help and support one another, as this strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and unity within the community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes the Hadith by stating,

and by doing this, you will gain mastery over your affairs.

This means that by avoiding grudges, hatred, quarrels, and lack of support, Muslims will be able to achieve success and control over their own affairs. Unity and cooperation are essential for the progress and prosperity of the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid behaviors that can lead to division and discord. By letting go of grudges, hatred, quarrels, and by extending a helping hand to one another, Muslims can foster unity and achieve success in their individual and collective endeavors. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim ummah.