Hadith #6922

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of rewarding goodness and overlooking offenses, as long as they do not constitute a breach in religion or undermine the authority of Islam. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (jaz) "جازِ" in the Hadith refers to rewarding or recompensing. It implies acknowledging and appreciating acts of goodness and virtue. This concept is beautifully echoed in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of rewarding good deeds. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 16:97)

Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer - We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do

This verse highlights the divine promise of rewarding those who perform righteous acts.

On the other hand, the word (tajawaz) "تَجاوَزْ" in the Hadith means to overlook or forgive offenses. It encourages Muslims to adopt a forgiving and tolerant attitude towards others, especially when they commit minor mistakes or wrongdoings. This concept is beautifully exemplified in the Quranic verse, (Quran 24:22)

And let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful

This verse emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and encourages Muslims to forgive others in order to seek forgiveness from Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further clarifies that this principle of rewarding goodness and overlooking offenses should not be applied when it results in a breach in religion or undermines the authority of Islam. This means that if someone commits an act that goes against the fundamental principles of Islam or poses a threat to the integrity and stability of the Muslim community, it cannot be overlooked or rewarded. In such cases, it becomes necessary to address the issue and take appropriate measures to protect the religion and the Muslim community.

To understand the significance of this principle, we can refer to the Quranic verse, (Quran 5:2)

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty

This verse highlights the importance of upholding righteousness and piety while refraining from supporting or participating in sinful and aggressive acts. It reminds Muslims to be vigilant in protecting the boundaries of Islam and not to compromise on matters that are essential to the faith.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a guiding principle for Muslims in their interactions with others. It encourages us to reward acts of goodness and virtue, fostering a positive and encouraging environment within the community. At the same time, it reminds us to be forgiving and tolerant towards the mistakes and shortcomings of others, as long as they do not undermine the core principles of Islam. This approach promotes unity, compassion, and understanding among Muslims, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of rewarding goodness and overlooking offenses, as long as they do not constitute a breach in religion or undermine the authority of Islam. It encourages Muslims to adopt a balanced approach in their interactions with others, promoting a culture of appreciation, forgiveness, and tolerance. By adhering to this principle, we can contribute to the betterment of our communities and the strengthening of our faith. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).