Hadith #6664

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 acting courteously with the enemies of Allah in their domains. The word (mujamalah) "مُجامَلَةُ" refers to treating someone with kindness, respect, and courtesy. The enemies of Allah are those who oppose His guidance and engage in acts of disobedience. The phrase (fi dawlatihim) "في دَوْلَتِهِمْ" means in their domains or territories. It implies that even when dealing with those who oppose the truth, it is necessary to maintain good conduct and treat them with courtesy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that acting courteously with the enemies of Allah serves as a safeguard from the chastisement of Allah. This means that by treating them with kindness and respect, one can potentially soften their hearts and create an opportunity for them to reflect on their actions. It is a way of inviting them towards the path of righteousness and guiding them towards the truth. Allah, in His infinite mercy, may forgive them and protect them from His punishment.

The second part of the Hadith mentions that acting courteously with the enemies of Allah is also a caution from the raging tribulations of this world. The word (taqiyyah) "تَقِيَّةٌ" refers to precautionary measures taken to protect oneself from harm. By treating the enemies of Allah with courtesy, one avoids unnecessary conflicts and potential harm that may arise from engaging in confrontations. It is a way of preserving peace and harmony in society.

To further understand the significance of acting courteously with the enemies of Allah, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah says in Surah Fussilat (41:34),

And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.

This verse highlights the importance of responding to evil with goodness and kindness. By doing so, we have the potential to transform an enemy into a close friend.

Another verse that supports the concept of acting courteously with the enemies of Allah is found in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8),

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with fairness and justice, even if they hold different beliefs or ideologies. It is a reminder that our conduct should be guided by principles of righteousness and justice, regardless of the circumstances.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us the importance of maintaining good conduct and treating others with kindness, even in the face of opposition or enmity. It reminds us that our behavior should be guided by the principles of Islam, which promote peace, justice, and compassion. By acting courteously with the enemies of Allah, we not only protect ourselves from His punishment but also create opportunities for them to be guided towards the truth. It is a reflection of the wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who exemplified these qualities throughout his life. May Allah guide us all to follow in his footsteps and grant us the ability to act with kindness and courtesy towards all, even those who oppose us.