Hadith #11085

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) warns us to beware of impudence, as it leads us towards engaging in ugly acts and rushing towards evil deeds. To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used.

The word (qiḥah) "قِحَةَ" refers to impudence or insolence. It signifies a behavior that is disrespectful, arrogant, and lacking in humility. It is a quality that goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of humility, modesty, and respect towards others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the consequences of impudence. He cautions that it drives us to embark on (rukūb al-qabā’iḥ) "رُكُوبِ القَبائِحِ", which can be translated as

riding on ugly acts.

This phrase metaphorically portrays the idea that impudence leads us to engage in sinful and immoral actions. It is a reminder that our behavior and actions are influenced by our attitudes and mindset. When we allow impudence to take hold of us, it becomes easier for us to justify and engage in acts that are contrary to the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further warns that impudence leads us to (tahajjum 'ala as-sayyiāt) "تَهَجُّمِ عَلَى السَّيِّئاتِ", which can be translated as

rushing towards evil deeds.

This phrase highlights the hastiness and lack of restraint that impudence brings. When we are impudent, we become more inclined to act impulsively and without considering the consequences of our actions. This can lead us to engage in sinful and harmful deeds, as we are driven by our desires and ego rather than guided by the principles of righteousness and morality.

To fully comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran, which provides guidance and support for the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This Quranic verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding impudence and insulting others. It reminds us that ridiculing and insulting others is not only disrespectful but also goes against the principles of Islam. It highlights the need for humility, respect, and kindness in our interactions with others.

Another relevant Quranic verse is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:37), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse serves as a reminder that arrogance and impudence have no place in the life of a Muslim. We are urged to be humble and modest, recognizing our limitations and the need to rely on Allah's guidance and mercy.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand the importance of guarding ourselves against impudence. It is a quality that leads us towards engaging in ugly acts and rushing towards evil deeds. By cultivating humility, respect, and kindness in our interactions with others, we can strive to embody the teachings of Islam and avoid the pitfalls of impudence. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the destructive consequences of impudence.