Hadith #3468

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 righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مِنْ عَلامَاتِ الخِذْلَانِ ايتِمانُ الخُوّانِ۔

This Hadith highlights one of the signs of being forsaken by Allah, which is to consider the treacherous as trustworthy.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (khizlan) "خِذْلَانِ" refers to being forsaken or abandoned by Allah. It signifies a state where one is deprived of divine support and guidance. The word (aitiman) "ايتِمانُ" means to consider or regard someone as trustworthy. And the word (khuwan) "خُوّانِ" refers to the treacherous or deceitful individuals who betray the trust placed in them.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the consequences of trusting the treacherous in Surah Al-Imran, verse 118:

(Quran 3:118)

O you who have believed, do not take as intimates those other than yourselves, for they will not spare you [any] ruin. They wish you would have hardship. Hatred has already appeared from their mouths, and what their breasts conceal is greater. We have certainly made clear to you the signs, if you will use reason.

This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing trustworthy companions and associates. It cautions us against placing our trust in those who harbor ill intentions and seek to harm us. Trusting such individuals can lead to ruin and hardship, as they will not hesitate to betray our trust.

Another verse that sheds light on the significance of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 27:

(Quran 8:27)

O you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence].

This verse highlights the gravity of betraying trusts, whether they are entrusted to us by Allah, His Messenger (ﷺ), or other individuals. It serves as a reminder that betraying trusts is a grave sin and a sign of being forsaken by Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith warns us about the dangers of considering the treacherous as trustworthy. It reminds us to be cautious in choosing our companions and associates, ensuring that they possess integrity and sincerity. Trusting the treacherous can lead to dire consequences, both in this world and in the Hereafter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that it is not limited to a specific time or place. Its message is universal and timeless, applicable to Muslims of all generations. It urges us to be discerning in our relationships, to seek out those who are trustworthy and loyal, and to distance ourselves from those who are deceitful and untrustworthy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his teachings continue to guide and inspire Muslims to this day. His words in this Hadith serve as a reminder for us to be vigilant in our interactions and to place our trust in those who are deserving of it. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the harm and betrayal of the treacherous, and maintain a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to discern between the trustworthy and the treacherous, and protect us from being forsaken. May He guide us to choose companions and associates who will help us in our journey towards Him. Ameen.