Hadith #4524

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,

لاسَجِيَّةَ أشْرَفُ مِنَ الرِّفْقِ۔

This translates to

There is no quality more honourable than leniency.

In this beautiful Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the virtue of leniency and highlights its superiority over other qualities.

The word (lasajiyyah) "لاسَجِيَّةَ" refers to leniency, gentleness, and softness. It encompasses the act of being kind, compassionate, and forgiving towards others. This quality is not only about being gentle in speech and actions but also about having a forgiving and understanding heart. It is a characteristic that reflects the highest level of moral excellence and righteousness.

To understand the significance of leniency, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes Himself as (Ar-Ra'uf) "الرَّؤُوفُ", meaning the Most Kind and Gentle. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah says,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts with leniency and justice. It encourages Muslims to approach disputes with a gentle and compassionate attitude, seeking reconciliation rather than perpetuating animosity. Leniency is a means to establish peace and harmony within the community, as it promotes understanding, forgiveness, and unity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:159), Allah instructs the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

This verse highlights the exemplary character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his approach of leniency towards his companions. By being gentle and kind-hearted, the Prophet (ﷺ) was able to maintain the unity and loyalty of his followers. It teaches us that leniency is not a sign of weakness but rather a manifestation of strength and wisdom.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us of the profound impact that leniency can have on our relationships and interactions with others. When we embody this quality, we create an atmosphere of compassion, understanding, and forgiveness. Leniency allows us to bridge gaps, resolve conflicts, and build stronger bonds within our communities.

Moreover, leniency extends beyond our interactions with fellow Muslims. It encompasses our behavior towards all of Allah's creation. In Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107), Allah says,

And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was sent as a mercy to all of humanity, and his leniency and compassion serve as a guiding light for us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that there is no quality more honorable than leniency. It is a characteristic that reflects the highest level of moral excellence and righteousness. By embodying leniency, we follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and contribute to the establishment of peace, harmony, and unity within our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate this noble quality in our hearts and actions.