Hadith #941

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لاحُلَلَ كالآدابِ۔" which translates to

There is no vestment like good etiquette.

This thought-provoking Hadith emphasizes the significance and value of good manners and etiquette in Islam. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (hulala) "حُلَلَ" in this Hadith refers to a garment or clothing. It symbolizes something that adorns and beautifies a person. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares good etiquette to a garment, highlighting its importance in adorning and beautifying one's character. Just as a beautiful garment enhances one's appearance, good etiquette enhances one's moral and spiritual character.

The term (adab) "آدابِ" in this Hadith refers to good manners, courtesy, and proper conduct. It encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including respect, kindness, humility, and patience. Good etiquette is not limited to specific actions but encompasses a comprehensive approach to interacting with others and living a righteous life.

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

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.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding mockery and ridicule, which are contrary to good etiquette. It encourages Muslims to treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of their differences.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to say,

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 emphasizes the importance of using kind and gentle words, even in challenging situations. It reminds Muslims to choose their words wisely and speak in a manner that promotes harmony and unity.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize good manners and etiquette in their daily lives. It highlights the transformative power of good character and its ability to positively impact relationships and society as a whole. When individuals embody good etiquette, they become a source of inspiration and guidance for others.

Good etiquette is not limited to specific actions but extends to all aspects of life. It includes being respectful towards elders, showing kindness to the young, being patient in times of adversity, and speaking with wisdom and gentleness. It involves treating others with fairness, honesty, and compassion, regardless of their background or beliefs.

By embodying good etiquette, Muslims can create an environment of love, respect, and unity within their communities. It fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Moreover, good manners serve as a means of inviting others towards the beauty of Islam, as people are often drawn to those who exhibit exemplary character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the importance of good manners and etiquette. It emphasizes that good character is a valuable garment that adorns and beautifies one's soul. By embodying good etiquette, Muslims can cultivate a society that is characterized by love, respect, and compassion. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody good manners and etiquette in our lives and be a source of inspiration for others.