Hadith #10969

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

لايَكُونَنَّ أخُوكَ عَلى قَطيعَتِكَ أقْوى مِنْكَ عَلى صِلَتِهِ۔

This profound statement emphasizes the importance of maintaining and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and kinship. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The word (your brother) "أخُوكَ" refers to any individual who shares a common faith and is part of the Muslim ummah. It encompasses both biological siblings as well as the broader brotherhood of believers. This term highlights the unity and solidarity that should exist among Muslims, regardless of their familial ties.

The phrase (in severing ties with you) "عَلى قَطيعَتِكَ" refers to the act of cutting off or severing the bonds of brotherhood. It signifies the breakdown of relationships, whether due to disagreements, misunderstandings, or personal grievances. This phrase serves as a reminder that Muslims should not be the ones initiating the severance of ties.

On the other hand, the phrase (in establishing ties with him) "عَلى صِلَتِهِ" emphasizes the importance of actively working towards maintaining and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood. It encourages Muslims to take the initiative in reaching out, reconciling, and fostering unity among themselves.

The exegesis of this Hadith can be further understood by examining relevant Quranic verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10):

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers.

This verse highlights the fundamental principle of brotherhood among Muslims and emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes among believers.

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

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 reminds Muslims to always choose words and actions that promote harmony and unity, rather than falling into the traps of Satan, who seeks to create division among believers.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize the establishment and maintenance of strong bonds of brotherhood. It urges us to be proactive in reaching out to our fellow Muslims, even in the face of disagreements or conflicts. By doing so, we can prevent the severance of ties and work towards fostering a sense of unity and solidarity within the ummah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words in this Hadith reflect his deep understanding of the importance of maintaining strong relationships among Muslims. He recognized that a strong and united ummah is essential for the progress and success of the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the establishment and maintenance of strong bonds of brotherhood. It urges us to be proactive in reaching out to our fellow Muslims, even in times of disagreement or conflict. By doing so, we can foster unity, strengthen our community, and uphold the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of unity and brotherhood.