Hadith #2273

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Doing good is the nature of the righteous and doing evil is the nature of the wicked.

This concise statement highlights the inherent disposition of individuals towards good or evil. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ihsan) "إحسان" in Arabic refers to doing good or acting with excellence. It encompasses acts of kindness, benevolence, and righteousness. The term (ghariza) "غريزة" translates to "nature" or "innate disposition." It implies that doing good is an intrinsic quality of the righteous, deeply rooted in their character.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of doing good deeds, as it is beloved by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the contrast between righteousness and sin, emphasizing the importance of aligning oneself with goodness and avoiding evil.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that their actions reflect their true nature. The righteous individuals, guided by their faith and knowledge, are inclined towards performing acts of kindness and righteousness. Their innate disposition leads them to seek opportunities to benefit others and contribute positively to society.

Conversely, the wicked individuals, driven by their ignorance and arrogance, are inclined towards evil actions. Their nature pushes them towards acts of harm, injustice, and wrongdoing. They disregard the rights of others and prioritize their own selfish desires.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement for Muslims. It serves as a motivation for individuals to strive towards developing their character and aligning themselves with the path of righteousness. By doing so, they can strengthen their connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fulfill their purpose as Muslims.

The consequences of following the nature of the righteous or the wicked are profound. Those who embody the nature of the righteous are rewarded with the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the blessings of the Hereafter. They are granted a place in Paradise, where they will be eternally rewarded for their good deeds.

On the other hand, those who follow the nature of the wicked face the consequences of their actions. They will be held accountable for their evil deeds and will face punishment in the Hereafter. The Quran warns in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:81),

And [recall] when Allah took the covenant of the Prophets, [saying], 'Whatever I give you of the Scripture and wisdom and then there comes to you a Messenger confirming what is with you, you [must] believe in him and support him.' [ Allah ] said, 'Have you acknowledged and taken upon that My commitment?' They said, 'We have acknowledged it.' He said, 'Then bear witness, and I am with you among the witnesses.' So whoever turns away after this - they are the defiantly disobedient.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the inherent nature of individuals towards good or evil. It serves as a call to action for Muslims to embrace their innate disposition towards goodness and righteousness. By doing so, they can strive to become better individuals and fulfill their purpose as servants of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and protect us from the temptations of evil.