Hadith #7888

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the noble character and integrity of the Imam. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes his commitment to fulfilling his promises and the importance of honoring one's word. He states that he has never slept with a promise unfulfilled, causing the person waiting for him to toss and turn in restlessness. The Imam describes his own restlessness on his bed as even greater, driven by his eagerness to meet the person and fulfill his promise. He also expresses his fear of any hindrance that may lead to reneging on the promise, as going back on one's word is not befitting the character of the honorable.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of fulfilling promises and the consequences of breaking them. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 34, Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the accountability we have for fulfilling our promises, as we will be questioned about them on the Day of Judgment.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 1, Allah says,

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

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling all contracts and agreements, including promises made to others. It is a fundamental principle of Islamic ethics to honor one's word and fulfill obligations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, sets an exemplary standard in fulfilling promises. He recognizes the distress caused to the person waiting for him and the importance of relieving their anxiety by fulfilling his commitment. His restlessness on his bed reflects his eagerness to meet the person and fulfill the promise, even at the cost of his own comfort. This demonstrates his selflessness and dedication to upholding the values of honesty and integrity.

The Imam's fear of any hindrance that may lead to reneging on the promise highlights his awareness of the consequences of breaking one's word. Going back on a promise not only damages one's reputation but also undermines trust and weakens the social fabric. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that reneging on a promise is not befitting the character of the honorable, as it goes against the teachings of Islam and the principles of justice and fairness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of fulfilling our promises and the impact it has on our relationships and society as a whole. It teaches us to be mindful of our commitments and to prioritize the well-being of others over our own comfort. By honoring our word, we strengthen trust, foster harmonious relationships, and uphold the values of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to fulfill our promises and embody the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May He guide us to be people of integrity and honor, and may He bless us with His mercy and forgiveness.