Hadith #4319

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

By cutting off ties with near relatives, [divine] retributions are brought down.

This Hadith highlights the grave consequences of severing family ties and emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong bonds with our relatives.

The word (qati'ah) "قَطِيعَةِ" in the Hadith refers to the act of cutting off or severing. It signifies the deliberate and intentional breaking of ties with one's close relatives. The word (ar-rahim) "الرَّحِمِ" refers to the womb or the family ties that connect us to our relatives. It encompasses the bond of kinship and the responsibilities that come with it.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of maintaining family ties in the Quran. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 1, Allah says,

O mankind, fear your Lord, who created you from one soul and created from it its mate and dispersed from both of them many men and women. And fear Allah, through whom you ask one another, and the wombs. Indeed Allah is ever, over you, an Observer.

This verse highlights the unity of humanity and the interconnectedness of all individuals through the bonds of kinship.

Furthermore, in Surah Muhammad, verse 22, Allah says,

So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers.

This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast and not weaken in their faith and actions. It can be understood that severing family ties weakens the bonds of kinship and can lead to grief and loss. Therefore, maintaining these ties is essential for the strength and unity of the Muslim community.

The consequences of cutting off ties with near relatives are severe. It not only disrupts the harmony within families but also invites divine retribution. By severing family ties, individuals invite the wrath of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) upon themselves. This retribution can manifest in various ways, such as strained relationships, loss of blessings, and a sense of emptiness and loneliness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the importance of maintaining family ties through this Hadith. He reminds Muslims of the consequences that result from severing these ties. By cutting off relationships with our relatives, we not only harm ourselves but also disrupt the natural order established by Allah.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we can understand that maintaining strong family ties is not only a religious duty but also a means of fostering love, compassion, and unity within the Muslim community. It is through these bonds that we find support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. By nurturing these relationships, we create a harmonious environment that is pleasing to Allah and beneficial for our own well-being.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to uphold the ties of kinship and avoid severing family relationships. It emphasizes the severe consequences that result from cutting off these ties and highlights the importance of maintaining strong bonds with our relatives. By doing so, we not only fulfill our religious obligations but also contribute to the unity and well-being of the Muslim community. May Allah guide us all to uphold the ties of kinship and grant us the wisdom to nurture and strengthen our family relationships.