Hadith #805

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of upholding the rights of our fellow Muslims. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us against neglecting the rights of our brothers and sisters, even if we have a close relationship with them. He emphasizes that overlooking someone's right is a serious matter and it undermines the bond of brotherhood in Islam.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (Iyyaka) "إيّاكَ" means "beware" or "be careful." It is a strong admonition, urging us to pay attention to what follows. The word (tuhmil) "أنْ تُهْمِلَ" means "to neglect" or "to overlook." It implies a deliberate act of disregarding someone's right. The term (haqq) "حقَّ" refers to the rights and entitlements that every individual possesses, whether it be their property, honor, or dignity. The word (akhika) "أخيكَ" means "your brother," which encompasses both male and female believers.

To understand the significance of upholding the rights of others, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10):

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining unity and resolving conflicts among believers. It reminds us that we are all part of one Ummah, and it is our duty to treat each other with fairness and justice.

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

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. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. It reminds us that our personal feelings or biases should never hinder us from fulfilling the rights of others.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we realize that neglecting someone's right can have severe consequences. By disregarding the rights of our brothers and sisters, we not only harm them but also damage the fabric of our community. It erodes trust, creates divisions, and weakens the unity of the Ummah. Moreover, neglecting the rights of others goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize justice, compassion, and empathy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that true brotherhood in Islam is not merely based on blood relations or personal affiliations. It is rooted in the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for the rights of others. As Muslims, we are obligated to uphold these principles and strive for the betterment of our community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for us to be mindful of the rights of our fellow Muslims. It urges us to avoid neglecting or overlooking someone's right, regardless of our relationship with them. By upholding the rights of others, we contribute to the unity and strength of the Ummah, and we fulfill the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in treating others with fairness, justice, and compassion, and may He grant us the wisdom to uphold the rights of our brothers and sisters.