Hadith #2059

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لَيْسَ لِلأحْرارِ جَزاءٌ إلاّ الإكْرامُ

which translates to

There is no reward for the free except honour [and respect].

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the unique and elevated status of those who possess true freedom.

The word (ahraar) "أحْرار" refers to those who are free, liberated, and independent. It encompasses individuals who are not bound by the chains of worldly desires, societal pressures, or the whims of others. They are individuals who possess a sense of inner freedom, guided by their conscience and the principles of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the reward for such individuals is not material wealth or worldly possessions. Instead, it is the honor and respect that they receive from others. This honor and respect is a reflection of their noble character, their adherence to truth and justice, and their unwavering commitment to the principles of Islam.

The Quranic verses provide us with a deeper understanding of the concept of honor and respect for the free. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true honor and nobility are not based on one's lineage, wealth, or social status, but rather on one's piety and righteousness. It is the free individuals who embody these qualities and are deserving of honor and respect.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of inner strength and steadfastness in the face of challenges and trials. The free individuals, who possess true freedom of the soul, are able to navigate through life with firmness and resilience. They are not swayed by external pressures or temptations, but rather remain steadfast in their commitment to truth and righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for true freedom, not just in the physical sense, but also in the spiritual and moral realms. It encourages us to break free from the shackles of worldly desires and societal expectations, and to embrace the principles of Islam wholeheartedly.

When we embody the qualities of the free, such as piety, righteousness, and steadfastness, we earn the honor and respect of others. This honor is not fleeting or superficial, but rather a reflection of our character and our commitment to the teachings of Islam.

Furthermore, this Hadith also highlights the importance of treating others with honor and respect. Just as the free individuals deserve honor, it is our duty as Muslims to extend the same courtesy to others, regardless of their social status or background. Islam teaches us to value the inherent dignity of every human being and to treat them with kindness, compassion, and respect.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the true reward for the free, which is honor and respect. It calls upon us to strive for true freedom of the soul, guided by the principles of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to embody the qualities of the free and to treat others with honor and respect.