Hadith #4987

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 and immaculate progeny, and his noble companions.

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

مَنْ عامَلَ النّاسَ بِالإساءَةِ كافَؤُهُ بِها۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever treats people badly, they requite him with the same treatment.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking Hadith in light of the Quran. The key word in this hadith is (isaa'ah) "إساءَةِ", which refers to treating others with harm, injustice, or ill-treatment. This includes any action or behavior that causes pain, distress, or discomfort to others. It encompasses both physical and emotional harm, as well as any form of oppression or injustice.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and fairness. 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 verse highlights the importance of avoiding ridicule, insults, and offensive behavior towards others. It reminds us that we should not judge or belittle others, as they may be better than us in the sight of Allah. By treating others with respect and dignity, we uphold the principles of justice and fairness that Islam promotes.

Another verse that supports the message of the hadith is found in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with righteousness and justice, regardless of their religious beliefs or actions towards us. It encourages Muslims to uphold justice and fairness in their interactions with others, even if they are not Muslims or hold different opinions. By doing so, we demonstrate the true essence of Islam and earn the love of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith. This statement serves as a reminder of the universal principle of cause and effect. It highlights the natural consequence of treating others poorly. When we engage in harmful behavior towards others, we create a negative cycle that perpetuates harm and suffering.

For example, if we insult someone, they are likely to respond with insults in return. If we oppress others, they may seek revenge or retaliate in some way. This cycle of negativity only leads to further harm and discord within society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a warning against engaging in such behavior. It reminds us that our actions have consequences, and we will be treated in the same manner as we treat others. If we want to be treated with kindness, respect, and fairness, then we must embody these qualities in our interactions with others.

Furthermore, this hadith also highlights the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement. It urges us to examine our own behavior and strive to be better individuals. By treating others with kindness and compassion, we not only contribute to a more harmonious society but also purify our own souls.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of our actions. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and fairness, as these are the qualities that Islam promotes. By embodying these principles, we can contribute to a more compassionate and just society, and ultimately, earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt.