Hadith #5005

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,

ماسادَ مَنِ احْتاجَ إخْوانُهُ إلى غَيْرِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

He whose brothers need to turn to other than him [for help] has not achieved eminence.

Let us delve into the words of this profound Hadith. The word "ماسادَ" refers to someone who has not achieved or attained a certain status or position. It implies a lack of accomplishment or excellence. The term "احْتاجَ" means to be in need or to require assistance. "إخْوانُهُ" refers to one's brothers, which can be understood as fellow Muslims or members of the community. Finally, "غَيْرِهِ" means other than him, indicating that the person in question is unable to fulfill the needs of his brothers.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of unity and mutual support among Muslims in several verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Imran (3:103), Allah says,

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.

This verse highlights the significance of unity and collective strength within the Muslim community.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah states,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers.

This verse emphasizes the bond of brotherhood among believers and encourages them to resolve conflicts and support one another. It highlights the responsibility of each individual to be there for their brothers and sisters in times of need.

Based on these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing the importance of fulfilling the needs of our fellow Muslims. It is a call to action, urging us to strive for excellence in our relationships and to be a source of support for our brothers and sisters in faith.

When a person is unable to meet the needs of their brothers and sisters, it indicates a deficiency in their character and their commitment to the principles of Islam. It suggests a lack of empathy, compassion, and selflessness. Such an individual has not achieved the high status of eminence that is expected of a believer.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively engage in acts of kindness, generosity, and support towards one another. It encourages us to be proactive in identifying the needs of our fellow Muslims and striving to fulfill them. By doing so, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and unity within the community, and we embody the teachings of Islam.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can ask ourselves: Are we truly fulfilling the needs of our brothers and sisters in faith? Do we actively seek opportunities to support and assist those around us? Or do we turn a blind eye and expect others to take care of the needs of our fellow Muslims?

The consequences of neglecting the needs of our brothers and sisters are significant. It weakens the fabric of our community, creates divisions, and hinders our collective progress. On the other hand, when we actively strive to fulfill the needs of our fellow Muslims, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, create a sense of unity, and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be proactive in meeting the needs of their fellow believers. It calls us to strive for excellence in our relationships and to be a source of support and assistance for one another. By embodying the teachings of Islam and fulfilling the needs of our brothers and sisters, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and contribute to the unity and progress of the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to achieve eminence through our actions and grant us the ability to support and uplift one another.