Hadith #5371

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The sceptic has no religion and the backbiter has no magnanimity.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two negative traits that are detrimental to one's faith and character.

Let us first delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (murtab) "مُرْتاب" refers to a person who is doubtful, skeptical, or indecisive in matters of religion. Such an individual lacks conviction and certainty in their faith. On the other hand, the term (muruwwah) "مُرُوَّة" denotes magnanimity, generosity, and nobility of character. It encompasses qualities such as kindness, compassion, and integrity.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of faith and certainty in the Quran. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (49:15)

The believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful

This verse highlights the necessity of unwavering faith and the absence of doubt.

Furthermore, the Quran also condemns backbiting and gossip. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah warns, (49:12)

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful

This verse emphasizes the gravity of backbiting and the harm it causes to individuals and society.

Now, let us reflect on the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. The sceptic, who is constantly doubtful and indecisive in matters of religion, fails to establish a strong connection with Allah. Their lack of conviction prevents them from fully submitting to the will of Allah and embracing the teachings of Islam. This skepticism hinders their spiritual growth and prevents them from attaining true faith.

Similarly, the backbiter, who engages in gossip and spreads malicious rumors about others, lacks magnanimity and nobility of character. Backbiting not only harms the reputation of the person being spoken about but also tarnishes the character of the one engaging in such behavior. It displays a lack of empathy, compassion, and respect for others. This negative trait erodes the bonds of trust and unity within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate unwavering faith and to refrain from engaging in harmful speech. It encourages us to seek knowledge, strengthen our conviction, and strive for excellence in our character. By doing so, we can establish a strong connection with Allah and embody the noble qualities exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of faith and character in Islam. It warns against skepticism and backbiting, highlighting the detrimental effects they have on one's religion and character. By reflecting on the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of the Ahl al-Bayt, we can strive to embody the qualities of unwavering faith and noble character, thus strengthening our relationship with Allah and fostering a harmonious Muslim community. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from these negative traits.