Hadith #9774

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

إيّاكَ والمَكْرَ، فَإنَّ الْمَكْرَ لَخُلْقٌ ذَميمٌ۔

This can be translated as,

Beware of scheming, for indeed scheming [and plotting] is a blameworthy quality.

Let us delve into the meaning of the important words in this Hadith. The word (makr) "مَكْرَ" refers to scheming, plotting, or deceitful planning. It involves the act of devising strategies to achieve one's goals through cunning and deception. The term (dhamim) "ذَمِيمٌ" is translated as blameworthy or despicable. It signifies that scheming is a reprehensible trait that is condemned in Islam.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the evil of scheming in several verses. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:30), Allah says,

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse highlights the contrast between the plotting of the disbelievers and the planning of Allah. While the disbelievers schemed to harm the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the believers, Allah's plan ultimately prevailed. It demonstrates that no matter how cunning or deceptive human schemes may be, they are ultimately futile in the face of Allah's divine plan.

Another verse that sheds light on the blameworthiness of scheming is found in Surah Yusuf (12:102). Allah recounts the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) and how his brothers plotted against him. Allah says,

That is from the news of the unseen which We reveal to you, [O Muhammad]. And you were not with them when they put together their plan while they conspired.

This verse emphasizes that Allah is aware of the secret plots and schemes of people, even when they are hidden from others. It serves as a reminder that no matter how carefully crafted and concealed a scheme may be, Allah's knowledge encompasses all things. Therefore, those who engage in scheming will ultimately be held accountable for their actions.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we can draw several important lessons. Firstly, scheming is a negative trait that goes against the principles of Islam. It involves deception and manipulation, which are contrary to the values of honesty, integrity, and transparency that Islam promotes.

Secondly, the Quranic verses highlight the futility of scheming in the face of Allah's divine plan. No matter how meticulously one plans and plots, they cannot escape the knowledge and power of Allah. Therefore, Muslims should put their trust in Allah and rely on His guidance rather than resorting to scheming and deceitful tactics.

Lastly, this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious and vigilant against falling into the trap of scheming. It is essential to cultivate a strong moral character and adhere to the teachings of Islam, which emphasize sincerity, fairness, and justice in all our dealings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns Muslims against the blameworthy quality of scheming. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that highlight the consequences of scheming and the supremacy of Allah's plan, we are reminded of the importance of upholding honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness in all aspects of our lives. May Allah protect us from the temptation of scheming and guide us on the path of righteousness.