Hadith #7918

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

مِنْ أشْرَفِ الشِّيَمْ حِياطَةُ الذِّمَمِ۔

This can be translated as,

One of the most honourable of traits is safeguarding [and fulfilling] your pledges.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith in light of the Quran. The key word in this Hadith is "حِياطَةُ الذِّمَمِ" which means "safeguarding your pledges." The word "حِياطَةُ" comes from the root word "حَيْطَة" which means to protect, guard, or preserve. It implies a sense of responsibility and commitment towards fulfilling one's promises and obligations.

The importance of fulfilling pledges and promises is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:1),

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts.

This verse highlights the significance of fulfilling contracts and agreements, which includes fulfilling pledges and promises made to others. It is a trait that reflects honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Isra (17:34),

And fulfill every commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

This verse emphasizes the accountability that comes with fulfilling commitments. It reminds us that we will be questioned about our actions, including our fulfillment of pledges and promises, on the Day of Judgment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the noble character of safeguarding and fulfilling pledges. It encourages Muslims to prioritize their commitments and honor their word. This trait is not only honorable in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but it also strengthens the bonds of trust and unity within the Muslim community.

When we fulfill our pledges, we demonstrate our sincerity and reliability. Our actions align with our words, and this consistency builds a foundation of trust among individuals and within society. It fosters an environment of mutual respect and cooperation, where people can rely on one another and work together towards common goals.

Conversely, neglecting or breaking our pledges can have severe consequences. It damages relationships, erodes trust, and creates a sense of betrayal. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177),

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse emphasizes that true righteousness includes fulfilling promises, among other acts of worship and kindness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that safeguarding and fulfilling our pledges is not only a matter of personal integrity, but it is also a means of strengthening our faith and character. It is a quality that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified throughout his life, as he was known for his unwavering commitment to justice, truth, and fulfilling his obligations.

As Muslims, we should strive to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and prioritize the fulfillment of our pledges. Whether it is a promise made to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), our families, friends, or society at large, let us honor our commitments and be people of integrity. By doing so, we not only earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but we also contribute to the betterment of our communities and the unity of the Muslim ummah. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to fulfill our pledges and be people of honor and integrity.