Hadith #9047

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 noble companions.

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

لاخُلْقَ أقْبَحُ مِنَ الكِبْرِ۔

This can be translated as,

There is no quality uglier than arrogance.

In this profound statement, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the repugnance of arrogance, emphasizing its negative impact on an individual's character and relationships.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (كِبْرِ) "kibr" refers to arrogance or pride, which is an inflated sense of self-importance and superiority over others. It is a negative trait that blinds individuals to their own flaws and prevents them from acknowledging the worth and dignity of others.

The Quran provides numerous verses that condemn arrogance and highlight its detrimental effects. In Surah Al-Isra (17:37), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

This verse reminds us of the limited nature of our existence and the futility of arrogance. No matter how high we think of ourselves, we are ultimately insignificant in the grand scheme of things.

Furthermore, in Surah Luqman (31:18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of arrogance, stating,

And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse emphasizes that arrogance is displeasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and goes against the principles of humility and modesty that Islam promotes.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of cultivating humility and avoiding arrogance. Arrogance not only damages one's character but also hinders personal growth and prevents meaningful connections with others. When a person is consumed by arrogance, they become blind to their own faults and fail to recognize the value and contributions of those around them.

Arrogance also leads to a sense of entitlement and a disregard for the rights and feelings of others. It creates divisions and fosters a culture of superiority, which is contrary to the teachings of Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself emphasized the importance of humility, stating,

Whoever has an atom's weight of arrogance in his heart will not enter Paradise.

This Hadith further emphasizes the severity of arrogance and its potential consequences in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to guard against the repugnant quality of arrogance. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that condemn arrogance and its detrimental effects, we are reminded of the importance of humility and the need to cultivate a sense of self-awareness and appreciation for others. Let us strive to embody the teachings of Islam by rejecting arrogance and embracing humility in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the ugliness of arrogance and guide us on the path of righteousness.