Hadith #859

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The brother acquired for the sake of Allah is the nearest of relations – even closer than mothers and fathers.

This enlightening saying highlights the significance and value of the bond formed through sincere brotherhood in Islam. To fully comprehend the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of its key words.

The term "brother" in this Hadith refers to a person who is acquired or chosen as a companion for the sake of Allah. This implies that the relationship is not based on blood ties or worldly interests, but rather on the shared love and devotion to Allah. Such a bond transcends the boundaries of kinship and becomes a spiritual connection that is rooted in faith.

The word (المُكْتَسَبُ) "acquired" emphasizes the intentional effort made to establish this relationship. It implies that true brotherhood is not a coincidence or a result of circumstance, but a conscious choice made by individuals who seek to strengthen their faith and support one another in their journey towards Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that this acquired brotherhood is

the nearest of relations – even closer than mothers and fathers.

This comparison highlights the exceptional closeness and intimacy that exists between individuals who share a bond of sincere brotherhood for the sake of Allah. It surpasses the natural affection and care that mothers and fathers have for their children.

To understand the significance of this statement, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Tawbah, verse 24:

Say, [O Muhammad], if your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your relatives, wealth which you have obtained, commerce wherein you fear decline, and dwellings with which you are pleased are more beloved to you than Allah and His Messenger and jihad in His cause, then wait until Allah executes His command. And Allah does not guide the defiantly disobedient people.

This verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our love and devotion to Allah and His Messenger over all worldly relationships and possessions. It teaches us that true believers are those who are willing to sacrifice their personal interests and attachments for the sake of Allah. In this context, the acquired brotherhood mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) becomes a manifestation of this profound love and devotion to Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of unity and reconciliation among the believers. It emphasizes the need for Muslims to treat one another as brothers and sisters, regardless of their ethnic, social, or economic backgrounds. The acquired brotherhood mentioned in the Hadith aligns with this Quranic principle, as it encourages Muslims to establish strong bonds of love, support, and unity for the sake of Allah.

The consequences of cultivating such acquired brotherhood are immense. When individuals come together for the sake of Allah, they create a community that is built on love, compassion, and mutual support. This unity strengthens their faith, provides them with a sense of belonging, and enables them to overcome challenges collectively. It fosters an environment where individuals can grow spiritually, seek knowledge, and strive for excellence in their worship and character.

Moreover, this acquired brotherhood extends beyond the boundaries of this world. In the Hereafter, those who have established sincere brotherhood for the sake of Allah will be rewarded with eternal companionship and closeness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hijr, verse 47:

And the companions of Paradise will call out to the companions of the Fire, 'We have already found what our Lord promised us to be true. Have you found what your Lord promised to be true?' They will say, 'Yes.' Then an announcer will announce among them, 'The curse of Allah shall be upon the wrongdoers.'

This verse highlights the eternal bond and companionship that awaits those who have established sincere brotherhood for the sake of Allah. It serves as a reminder of the immense reward and blessings that await those who prioritize their relationship with Allah and His righteous servants.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of acquiring brothers for the sake of Allah. It highlights the exceptional closeness and intimacy that exists between individuals who share a bond of sincere brotherhood rooted in faith. This acquired brotherhood surpasses the natural affection and care that mothers and fathers have for their children. It is a conscious choice made by individuals who seek to strengthen their faith and support one another in their journey towards Allah. By prioritizing our love and devotion to Allah and His Messenger, we can establish a community built on love, compassion, and mutual support. May Allah bless us all with the ability to cultivate sincere brotherhood for His sake and grant us the companionship of the righteous in this world and the Hereafter.