Hadith #366

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

مُقَارَبَةُ النَّاسِ فِي أَخْلاَقِهِمْ أَمْنٌ مِنْ غَوَائِلِهِمْ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of developing good manners and virtues in order to protect oneself from the harm and evil that may arise from others.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (muqarabah) "مُقَارَبَةُ" refers to the act of getting closer or being in close proximity. In this context, it signifies the act of approaching and interacting with people. (an-nas) "النَّاسِ" refers to people in general, encompassing all individuals. (akhlaqihim) "أَخْلاَقِهِمْ" refers to their manners, character, and moral conduct. Finally, (amnun) "أَمْنٌ" means safety or security, while (ghawailihim) "غَوَائِلِهِمْ" refers to their evil, harm, or negative influences.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we find numerous Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of good manners and virtues. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the significance of knowing and understanding one another, which can only be achieved through positive interactions and good manners. It also emphasizes that the most honorable and noble individuals are those who possess righteousness and piety. By embodying good manners, we not only gain nearness to others but also gain nearness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse highlights the importance of speaking in the best manner and avoiding divisive speech. By choosing our words wisely and speaking with kindness and respect, we can prevent the influence of Satan and maintain harmony among people. This aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as it emphasizes the significance of good manners in fostering safety from the evil and harm that may arise from others.

Reflecting on the exegesis of this Hadith, we can understand that developing good manners and virtues is not only a means of gaining nearness to others but also a means of protection from their negative influences. When we approach people with kindness, respect, and empathy, we create an environment of trust and harmony. This, in turn, safeguards us from the potential harm and evil that may arise from negative interactions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the importance of cultivating good manners and virtues. By embodying these qualities, we not only enhance our relationships with others but also strengthen our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through the practice of good manners that we can create a society built on compassion, understanding, and mutual respect.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that developing good manners and virtues is a means of protection from the harm and evil that may arise from others. By approaching people with kindness, respect, and empathy, we not only foster safety but also strengthen our relationships and gain nearness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us strive to embody these qualities in our interactions, for they are the foundation of a harmonious and virtuous society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to cultivate good manners and virtues in our lives.