Hadith #2292

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:

أحْسِنْ إلى مَنْ تَمْلِكُ رِقَّهُ، يُحْسِنْ إلَيْكَ مَنْ تَمَلَّكَ رِقَّكَ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of treating those under our authority with kindness and goodness, as by doing so, we can expect the same treatment from those who have authority over us.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (ihsin) "أحْسِنْ" means to do good, to excel in goodness, and to act with excellence. It encompasses acts of kindness, benevolence, and righteousness. The word (tamliku) "تَمْلِكُ" refers to having authority or control over someone or something. And the word (riqqahu) "رِقَّهُ" refers to the one who is under our authority, such as a servant, employee, or subordinate.

This Hadith reminds us of the universal principle of reciprocity, which is beautifully expressed in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says 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 justice and righteousness, regardless of their religious beliefs or actions towards us. It is a call to treat others with kindness and fairness, even if they may not reciprocate the same treatment. By doing so, we not only fulfill our moral obligations but also earn the love and pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us in Surah Al-Isra (17:23):

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse highlights the importance of treating our parents with utmost respect and kindness, even in their old age. It teaches us to choose our words wisely and to speak to them with honor and dignity. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty towards our parents but also set an example for others to follow.

Applying these Quranic teachings to the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that it is our responsibility to treat those under our authority with kindness, compassion, and fairness. Whether it is our employees, subordinates, or anyone else who is under our care, we should strive to create an environment of respect and dignity for them.

By treating them well, we not only fulfill our moral obligations but also create a positive and harmonious atmosphere. This, in turn, encourages them to reciprocate the same treatment towards us. When those under our authority witness our benevolence and fairness, they are more likely to be motivated to do good in return.

Conversely, if we mistreat those under our authority, we cannot expect them to treat us with kindness and respect. The principle of reciprocity dictates that our actions towards others will be reflected back to us. Therefore, by embodying the teachings of this Hadith, we not only improve our relationships with those under our authority but also create a ripple effect of goodness and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to treat those under their authority with kindness and goodness. By doing so, we not only fulfill our moral obligations but also create an environment of respect and dignity. This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of treating others with justice and righteousness. May we all strive to embody these teachings in our daily lives and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through our actions.