Hadith #934

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May the blessings and peace 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 good etiquette and manners. It states,

One whose etiquette is not his best quality, his simplest condition will be his destruction.

This Hadith highlights the significance of adab (etiquette) in the life of a Muslim and warns against neglecting it.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of the words used in this Hadith. The word (afdal) "أفْضلَ" refers to the best or highest quality, while (khilalih) "خِلالِهِ" means one's character or conduct. (adabuhu) "أدبُهُ" refers to his etiquette or manners, and (ahwan) "أهْوَنَ" means the simplest or easiest. Finally, (atbuhu) "عَطَبُهُ" signifies his destruction or downfall.

To understand the significance of good etiquette, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that the best among us are those who possess righteousness. Good etiquette and manners are integral components of righteousness. They enable us to interact with others in a respectful and compassionate manner, fostering unity and understanding within society.

Another verse that supports the importance of good etiquette is found in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

The Prophet's (ﷺ) impeccable manners and etiquette were a testament to his noble character, and he serves as the perfect example for Muslims to emulate.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the gate to the city of knowledge, possessed immense wisdom and knowledge. His understanding of the importance of good etiquette was unparalleled. He recognized that one's character and conduct are not only a reflection of their inner self but also have a profound impact on their overall well-being.

The Hadith warns that if a person neglects their etiquette and manners, even their simplest condition can lead to their destruction. This means that even in seemingly insignificant situations, a person's lack of good manners can have severe consequences. For example, a person who lacks etiquette may engage in harmful gossip, spread rumors, or engage in disrespectful behavior towards others. These actions can damage relationships, create animosity, and ultimately lead to their downfall.

On the other hand, a person who possesses good etiquette and manners will navigate through life with grace and humility. They will treat others with respect, kindness, and empathy, fostering harmonious relationships and earning the trust and admiration of those around them. Their good character will be a source of blessings and success in both this world and the hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize good etiquette and manners in their daily lives. It emphasizes that neglecting these qualities can lead to destruction, while embodying them can bring about success and blessings. Let us strive to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), embodying the best of character and conduct in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate and maintain good etiquette, and may He bless us with success in this world and the hereafter.