Hadith #11239

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 noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

A child is one of the two enemies.

This statement requires careful analysis and understanding in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (walad) "وَلَد" in Arabic refers to a child, offspring, or progeny. It signifies the young generation that follows after their parents. The word (aduw) "عَدُوّ" means an enemy or adversary. It represents someone who opposes or goes against another person.

To comprehend the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 17:23)

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring one's parents, regardless of their age. It highlights the duty of children to treat their parents with kindness, compassion, and respect. By doing so, children fulfill their obligations towards their parents and establish a harmonious relationship with them.

However, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) suggests that a child can also be an enemy. This does not imply a literal enmity between parents and children, but rather a potential conflict that can arise due to disobedience, neglect, or disrespect towards parents. It serves as a reminder that children have the capacity to become adversaries if they fail to fulfill their responsibilities towards their parents.

In Surah Al-Ankabut, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 31:14)

And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.

This verse emphasizes the gratitude that children should have towards their parents. It highlights the immense sacrifices made by parents, particularly the mother, in raising and nurturing their children. By acknowledging and appreciating their efforts, children can strengthen the bond with their parents and avoid becoming an enemy to them.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that they should be mindful of their behavior towards their parents. It urges them to reflect on their actions and strive to fulfill their duties as obedient and respectful children. By doing so, they can avoid becoming an adversary to their parents and maintain a harmonious relationship based on love, respect, and gratitude.

Furthermore, this Hadith also highlights the importance of nurturing and educating children in a manner that instills in them the values of respect, obedience, and gratitude towards their parents. Parents have a crucial role in shaping the character and behavior of their children. By providing them with a proper upbringing, parents can help prevent any potential conflicts and ensure a healthy relationship between themselves and their children.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

A child is one of the two enemies

serves as a reminder to Muslims of the potential conflict that can arise between parents and children if their duties and responsibilities are neglected. It emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the obligations towards parents, as prescribed by the Quran. By being obedient, respectful, and grateful towards their parents, children can avoid becoming adversaries and instead establish a strong and loving bond with them. May Allah guide us all to fulfill our duties towards our parents and grant us the ability to be obedient and respectful children.