Hadith #4486

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "اُرْفُقْ تُوَفَّقْ۔" This can be translated as

Be lenient and you shall gain success.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (urfuq) "اُرْفُقْ" is derived from the root (rafq) "رفق", which means to be gentle, kind, and compassionate. It encompasses the qualities of leniency, tenderness, and empathy towards others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging us to adopt this noble attribute in our interactions with fellow human beings.

The word (tuwaffaq) "تُوَفَّقْ" is derived from the root (wafaq) "وفق", which means to succeed, to attain prosperity, and to be granted divine assistance. It implies that by embodying leniency and kindness, we will be blessed with success in this world and the hereafter.

The Quranic verses beautifully support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:159):

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

This verse highlights the importance of leniency and kindness in dealing with others. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was instructed by Allah to be gentle and compassionate towards his companions. By doing so, he was able to maintain unity and cohesion among them. This demonstrates the effectiveness of leniency in building strong relationships and fostering harmony within a community.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-A'raf (7:199):

Take what is given freely, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant.

This verse encourages Muslims to be lenient and forgiving, to accept what is given willingly, and to promote goodness. By doing so, we create an atmosphere of compassion and understanding, which leads to personal growth and collective success.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds immense wisdom and practical guidance for us as Muslims. When we adopt a lenient and compassionate approach in our interactions, we open doors for understanding, reconciliation, and personal growth. By being gentle and kind, we can inspire others to follow the path of righteousness and foster a sense of unity within our communities.

Furthermore, the consequences of practicing leniency are far-reaching. It not only brings success in this world but also ensures our success in the hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) loves those who are compassionate and forgiving, and He rewards them abundantly.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the profound knowledge and wisdom possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His exemplary character and deep understanding of human nature make his teachings invaluable for Muslims of all generations. By following his guidance, we can strive towards personal growth, harmonious relationships, and ultimately, success in both this life and the hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Be lenient and you shall gain success

emphasizes the importance of adopting a gentle and compassionate approach in our interactions. This teaching finds support in the Quranic verses that highlight the significance of leniency, forgiveness, and kindness. By embodying these qualities, we can foster unity, promote goodness, and ultimately attain success in this world and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice leniency and gain success in all aspects of our lives.