Hadith #9623

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

مانالَ المَجْدَ مَنْ عَداهُ الحَمْدُ۔

This can be translated as,

He who has been forgone by praise will not acquire distinction.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (manala) "مانالَ" means to attain or achieve. (al-majd) "المَجْدَ" refers to glory, honor, or distinction. (man) "مَنْ" means whoever or he who. (adaahu) "عَداهُ" can be translated as being forsaken or left behind. And finally, (al-hamd) "الحَمْدُ" signifies praise or gratitude.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Fath (48:10),

Indeed, those who pledge allegiance to you, [O Muhammad] - they are actually pledging allegiance to Allah. The hand of Allah is over their hands. So he who breaks his word only breaks it to the detriment of himself. And he who fulfills that which he has promised Allah - He will give him a great reward.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's promises and commitments. Similarly, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of acknowledging and appreciating the good qualities and achievements of others. When we praise and recognize the accomplishments of our fellow Muslims, we uplift their spirits and encourage them to continue striving for excellence.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse teaches us the importance of avoiding ridicule and derogatory remarks towards others. It reminds us to appreciate the unique qualities and strengths that each individual possesses. By acknowledging and praising the good in others, we create an atmosphere of unity, respect, and encouragement within the Muslim community.

The consequences of neglecting to praise and recognize the achievements of others can be detrimental. When we fail to acknowledge the efforts and accomplishments of our fellow Muslims, we risk demotivating them and hindering their progress. This can lead to a lack of distinction and excellence within the community as a whole.

On the other hand, when we actively praise and appreciate the good in others, we inspire them to continue striving for greatness. This fosters an environment of growth, where individuals are motivated to excel in their endeavors. By uplifting and supporting one another, we contribute to the overall progress and success of the Muslim ummah.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of recognizing and praising the achievements of our fellow Muslims. Let us strive to be individuals who uplift and encourage one another, rather than being those who neglect or overlook the accomplishments of others. By doing so, we can contribute to the growth and distinction of the Muslim community, both spiritually and in worldly matters.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to appreciate and acknowledge the good in others. May He bless us with the ability to uplift and encourage our fellow Muslims, and may He shower His mercy and blessings upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.