Hadith #4297

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 progeny, and his righteous companions.

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

مَنْ كَفَّ شَرَّهُ فَارْجُ خَيْرَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who does no evil to others, [then] expect good from him.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (kaffa) "كَفَّ" in this Hadith means to withhold or refrain from. It signifies the act of abstaining from causing harm or evil to others. The word (sharrah) "شَرَّهُ" refers to the evil or harm that one may inflict upon others. And the word (farju) "فَارْجُ" means to expect or anticipate. Lastly, (khayrah) "خَيْرَهُ" refers to the good or benefit that one can anticipate from someone who refrains from causing harm.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and refraining from causing harm. It teaches us that when we choose not to harm others, we can expect goodness and benefit from them in return. This principle is rooted in the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good character, kindness, and the avoidance of evil.

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

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 encourages us to speak in the best manner, to choose our words wisely, and to avoid causing harm or discord. By doing so, we can expect goodness and harmony in our interactions with others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:96), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Repel, by [means of] what is best, [their] evil. We are most knowing of what they describe.

This verse highlights the importance of responding to evil with goodness and kindness. By choosing not to retaliate with harm, we can expect positive outcomes and a more peaceful resolution to conflicts.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the principles of kindness, forgiveness, and restraint. When we refrain from causing harm to others, we create an environment of trust and goodwill. This, in turn, fosters positive relationships and opens the door for mutual benefit and cooperation.

For example, if someone wrongs us, instead of seeking revenge or harboring ill feelings, we can choose to forgive and respond with kindness. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves from the negative consequences of holding grudges, but we also create an opportunity for the other person to reflect upon their actions and potentially change for the better.

Moreover, when we choose to withhold harm and treat others with respect, we inspire others to do the same. Our actions have a ripple effect, influencing those around us to adopt similar behaviors. This can lead to a more harmonious society, where people genuinely care for one another and work together for the greater good.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the importance of refraining from causing harm to others. By choosing to do no evil, we can expect goodness and benefit from those around us. This principle aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of good character, kindness, and the avoidance of evil. Let us strive to embody these qualities in our interactions with others, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to do so.