Hadith #11317

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,

Mani stahana bil-rijal qalla.

This Hadith emphasizes the consequences of treating people with disdain or looking down upon them. The word "istahana" means to belittle, disrespect, or treat with contempt. The word "rijal" refers to people or individuals. Thus, the Hadith can be translated as,

Whoever treats people with disdain, [his status] diminishes.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect, kindness, and fairness. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:13)

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted

This verse highlights the equality of all human beings and the importance of recognizing and appreciating the diversity among people. It reminds us that our worth and status in the eyes of Allah are determined by our righteousness and piety, not by our social standing or worldly possessions. Therefore, anyone who belittles or disrespects others based on their social status or any other superficial criteria is going against the teachings of Islam.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us to be humble and not to consider ourselves superior to others. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 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 reminds us to refrain from mocking or ridiculing others, as we do not know their true worth in the sight of Allah. It also warns against using offensive nicknames or insulting one another. Such behavior not only diminishes our own character but also goes against the principles of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, emphasized the importance of treating people with respect and dignity. He understood that belittling others not only harms them but also diminishes our own status and character. When we treat others with disdain, we create a negative atmosphere of hostility and division. On the other hand, when we treat others with kindness and respect, we foster unity, harmony, and a sense of belonging within the Muslim community.

The consequences of treating people with disdain extend beyond this world. In the Hereafter, our treatment of others will be a determining factor in our ultimate fate. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:31-35)

And do not kill your children for fear of poverty. We provide for them and for you. Indeed, their killing is ever a great sin. And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way. And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden, except by right. And whoever is killed unjustly - We have given his heir authority, but let him not exceed limits in [the matter of] taking life. Indeed, he has been supported [by the law]. And do not approach the property of an orphan, except in the way that is best, until he reaches maturity. And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned. And give full measure when you measure, and weigh with an even balance. That is the best [way] and best in result

These verses highlight the importance of upholding justice, protecting the sanctity of life, and fulfilling our commitments. They serve as a reminder that mistreating others, whether through physical harm, oppression, or disrespect, is a grave sin in the sight of Allah. It is our duty as Muslims to promote justice, compassion, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their social status or background.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of treating people with disdain. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of treating others with respect, kindness, and fairness. Belittling others not only diminishes their status but also diminishes our own character and standing in the sight of Allah. As Muslims, it is our responsibility to embody the values of compassion, humility, and justice in our interactions with others, thereby fostering unity and harmony within the Muslim community and beyond. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of Islam and treat others with the respect and dignity they deserve.