Hadith #906

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

Good etiquette is the perfection of man.

Let us delve into the essence of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word "adab" in Arabic refers to good manners, behavior, and etiquette. It encompasses all aspects of a person's conduct, both in their interactions with others and in their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a comprehensive term that encompasses humility, respect, kindness, and integrity.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good etiquette in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the significance of treating others with respect and refraining from ridiculing or insulting them. It emphasizes the need for good etiquette in our interactions with fellow Muslims, reminding us that belittling others based on their gender, race, or social status is contrary to the teachings of Islam.

Another verse that emphasizes the importance of good etiquette is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), where Allah says,

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 Muslims to choose their words wisely and speak in a manner that is pleasing to Allah. It reminds us that our speech should be characterized by kindness, truthfulness, and sincerity. By doing so, we can avoid falling into the traps of Satan and maintain harmonious relationships with others.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Good etiquette is the perfection of man.

This statement highlights the pivotal role that good manners play in the development and refinement of an individual's character.

When a person possesses good etiquette, they are able to navigate through various social interactions with grace and humility. They treat others with respect, kindness, and fairness, regardless of their differences. This not only fosters harmonious relationships but also reflects the true essence of Islam.

Good etiquette also extends to one's relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It involves fulfilling one's obligations towards Him, such as performing the five daily prayers, fasting in Ramadan, and giving charity. It also includes maintaining a constant awareness of Allah's presence and seeking His forgiveness and guidance in all aspects of life.

Imam Ali's statement serves as a reminder that true perfection lies not in material possessions or worldly achievements, but in the cultivation of good manners and noble character. It is through embodying the teachings of Islam and practicing good etiquette that one can attain true excellence and become a role model for others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Good etiquette is the perfection of man,

emphasizes the significance of cultivating good manners and noble character. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the importance of treating others with respect, kindness, and fairness. By embodying good etiquette, we can attain true perfection and strive towards becoming better Muslims and better human beings. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody good etiquette in all aspects of our lives.