Hadith #10145

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,

Mani istanjada thalilal, thall.

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who seeks help from the lowly is abased.

To understand the essence behind this statement, we must delve into the key words used in this Hadith.

The word "istanjada" comes from the root word "najada," which means to seek help or assistance. It implies turning to someone for support or aid. The word "thalilal" refers to the lowly or those who are considered insignificant or of low status. And the word "thall" means to be abased or humiliated.

To further comprehend the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mumtahanah, verse 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 highlights the importance of treating others with fairness and justice, regardless of their beliefs or social status. Seeking help from the lowly, in this context, refers to seeking assistance from those who may not have the same social standing or influence as others. It encourages Muslims to be just and fair in their interactions with all individuals, regardless of their perceived status.

Additionally, the Quran emphasizes the importance of humility and avoiding arrogance. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 37, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse reminds Muslims to remain humble and not to boast or look down upon others. Seeking help from the lowly serves as a reminder to maintain humility and not to belittle or disregard those who may be considered less influential or powerful.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement carries profound implications for our daily lives. It urges us to reflect on our actions and choices when seeking assistance. Instead of relying on those who may hold higher positions or possess more material wealth, we should consider the character, integrity, and knowledge of individuals.

For example, if we are in need of guidance or advice, we should seek it from those who possess wisdom and knowledge, regardless of their social status. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom from those who are qualified, regardless of their worldly status.

Furthermore, seeking help from the lowly can have positive consequences on both an individual and societal level. It promotes inclusivity, empathy, and unity among Muslims. It encourages us to recognize the value and worth of every individual, regardless of their social standing. By doing so, we create a more harmonious and just society, where everyone's contributions are acknowledged and respected.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking help and assistance from individuals based on their character and knowledge, rather than their social status. It reminds us to remain humble and just in our interactions with others, as prescribed by the Quran. By adhering to these teachings, we can cultivate a society that values justice, inclusivity, and the dignity of every individual. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in following the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).