Hadith #860

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of brotherhood for the sake of Allah. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in the Hadith. The word (your brother) "أخُوكَ" signifies a bond of kinship and unity among Muslims. It highlights the importance of fostering strong relationships based on faith and devotion to Allah. This brotherhood transcends blood ties and is rooted in the shared belief in the oneness of Allah and the teachings of Islam.

The phrase (for the sake of Allah) "في اللّهِ" signifies that this brotherhood is solely for the pleasure of Allah. It implies that the bond between believers should be based on piety, righteousness, and the pursuit of the Hereafter. This concept is beautifully emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10:

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

The next part of the Hadith states, (one who guides you towards rectitude)

مَنْ هَداكَ إلى رَشاد

This highlights the role of a true brother in guiding and advising others towards the path of righteousness and goodness. The Quran also emphasizes the importance of enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong. In Surah Al-Asr, Allah says,

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

Furthermore, the Hadith states, (forbids you from corruption) "ونَهاكَ عَنْ فَساد". This emphasizes the duty of a true brother to prevent others from engaging in sinful and corrupt behavior. It aligns with the Quranic teachings that condemn evil and promote righteousness. In Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 2, Allah says,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

Lastly, the Hadith states, (assists you to improve your Hereafter)

وأعانَكَ إلى إصلاحِ معاد

This highlights the significance of a true brother in supporting and helping others in their journey towards attaining success in the Hereafter. The Quran emphasizes the importance of mutual assistance and encouragement in matters of faith. In Surah Al-Balad, verse 17-18, Allah says,

And have you seen the one who denies the Recompense? For that is the one who drives away the orphan.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we realize the profound impact that true brotherhood for the sake of Allah can have on our lives. A true brother guides us towards righteousness, prevents us from falling into corruption, and assists us in improving our Hereafter. This Hadith encourages us to actively seek out and maintain such relationships, where our interactions are based on sincere advice, mutual support, and the pursuit of the pleasure of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize brotherhood for the sake of Allah. It emphasizes the importance of guiding others towards righteousness, preventing corruption, and assisting in the improvement of one's Hereafter. May Allah enable us to embody the true spirit of brotherhood and strengthen our bonds with fellow Muslims for His sake.