Hadith #9746

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ كَثُرَ مِراؤُهُ لَمْ يَأْمَنِ الغَلَطَ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose disputation increases does not remain safe from error.

In this enlightening Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of excessive argumentation and disputes.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (mirā'uhu) "مِراؤُهُ" refers to disputation or argumentation, indicating a state of constant disagreement and contention. The term (lam ya'man) "لَمْ يَأْمَنِ" means

does not remain safe

or "is not secure." And (al-ghalat) "الغَلَطَ" refers to error or deviation from the truth.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat (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. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts among believers. It encourages seeking reconciliation and justice rather than engaging in continuous arguments. When individuals become engrossed in constant disputation, they lose sight of the ultimate goal of unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the negative consequences of excessive argumentation. It weakens the resolve and unity of the believers, diminishing their strength and resolve. Instead, Allah encourages patience and obedience to Him and His Messenger (ﷺ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that excessive disputation leads to error and discord. When individuals are consumed by the desire to prove themselves right, they often lose sight of the truth and become susceptible to mistakes and misguidance.

Excessive argumentation can also lead to division and animosity within the Muslim community. It creates an environment of hostility and prevents the growth of mutual understanding and cooperation. Instead of engaging in endless debates, Muslims should focus on seeking knowledge, understanding different perspectives, and promoting unity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was renowned for his wisdom and knowledge. He understood the importance of seeking knowledge and engaging in meaningful discussions, but he also cautioned against excessive disputation. His words serve as a reminder that true wisdom lies in seeking the truth, promoting unity, and avoiding unnecessary arguments.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the detrimental effects of excessive disputation. It reminds us to prioritize unity, seek knowledge, and avoid unnecessary arguments that can lead to error and division. As Muslims, we should strive to follow the guidance of the Quran and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), seeking harmony and understanding within our community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us on the path of wisdom and unity.