Hadith #6694

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

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

مَنْ كَثُرَ تَعَدِّيهِ (تَعاديهِ) كَثُرَتْ أعاديهِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

One whose transgression (or antagonism) increases, his enemies increase.

Let us now delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (ta'addihi) "تَعَدِّيهِ" comes from the root word "عدا" which means to transgress or exceed the limits. It refers to the act of going beyond the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and engaging in actions that are morally wrong or harmful to others. This includes acts of aggression, oppression, and injustice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the direct correlation between one's transgressions and the increase in their enemies. When a person engages in transgression, they create animosity and resentment among others, which in turn leads to the multiplication of enemies. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of their actions and to avoid transgressing the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190),

Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse emphasizes the importance of not exceeding the limits even in times of conflict. Muslims are commanded to defend themselves, but they must do so within the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Muslims,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness, even towards those who may be hostile or hold animosity towards us. By practicing justice, we can prevent the multiplication of enemies and foster a more harmonious society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the consequences of transgression and antagonism. When a person engages in such behavior, they not only harm others but also invite hostility and enmity towards themselves. This can lead to a cycle of violence and conflict, which ultimately hinders the establishment of peace and justice in society.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we should strive to embody the qualities of justice, compassion, and forgiveness in our interactions with others. By doing so, we can break the cycle of transgression and hostility, and instead promote unity and harmony among Muslims and all of humanity.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and protect us from transgression and enmity. Ameen.