Hadith #6493

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

Becoming conceited because of a good deed nullifies it.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of humility and sincerity in our actions. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (al-'ujb) "العُجْبُ", which can be translated as "becoming conceited" or

being impressed with oneself.

It refers to a state of arrogance and self-admiration that arises when one becomes proud of their own good deeds. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that this attitude can nullify the reward and spiritual value of the good deed itself.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (28:76)

Indeed, Allah does not like the arrogant, boastful.

This verse emphasizes the displeasure of Allah towards those who exhibit arrogance and pride. It serves as a reminder that true righteousness lies in humility and modesty.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states: (57:20)

And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that our worldly possessions and accomplishments are merely a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Therefore, we should not allow ourselves to be consumed by pride and self-admiration, as it diminishes the true value of our good deeds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) cautions us against the negative consequences of becoming conceited because of a good deed. When we become arrogant and boastful, our intentions become tainted, and our actions lose their sincerity. This can lead to a sense of entitlement and self-righteousness, which hinders our spiritual growth and distances us from the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

For example, if someone performs a charitable act with the intention of gaining recognition or praise from others, their act loses its true value. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against this behavior: (2:264)

O you who have believed, do not invalidate your charities with reminders or injury as does one who spends his wealth [only] to be seen by the people and does not believe in Allah and the Last Day.

This verse highlights the importance of sincerity in our acts of charity and the detrimental effect of seeking worldly validation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to maintain humility and sincerity in their actions. It warns against the dangers of becoming conceited because of a good deed, as it nullifies the reward and spiritual value of the act. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that emphasize humility, modesty, and sincerity, we can strive to purify our intentions and ensure that our good deeds are performed solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to perform good deeds with sincerity and humility.