Hadith #2007

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of valuing and loving those individuals who strive the hardest in benefiting others. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith, exploring its meaning and implications in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (most beloved) "أحَبُّ", (the one who has the greatest status) "أخْظاهُمْ", and (striving) "سَعْياً". These words highlight the significance of valuing individuals based on their efforts and dedication in serving others. It encourages us to prioritize those who selflessly work towards the betterment of society.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the essence of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 the most honorable individuals are those who possess righteousness and piety, not based on their lineage or worldly status.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 seeking Allah's assistance and guidance in all our endeavors, including our efforts to benefit others. It reminds us that our actions should be driven by a sincere desire to please Allah and seek His blessings.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to evaluate individuals based on their dedication and commitment to serving humanity. It encourages us to appreciate those who go above and beyond in their efforts to benefit others, regardless of their social status or worldly achievements.

For example, consider a scenario where two individuals are vying for a position of leadership. One individual is wealthy and influential, while the other is from a humble background. According to this Hadith, we should prioritize the individual who has demonstrated a consistent and sincere commitment to serving the community, even if they may not possess the same level of material wealth or social status.

By valuing individuals based on their efforts in benefiting others, we create a society that promotes selflessness, compassion, and empathy. This mindset fosters an environment where individuals are motivated to contribute positively to their communities, leading to collective progress and development.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder for us to reflect on our own actions and motivations. Are we striving sincerely to benefit others, or are our efforts driven by personal gain and recognition? It prompts us to introspect and align our intentions with the teachings of Islam, ensuring that our actions are rooted in selflessness and the desire to please Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of valuing and loving those individuals who strive the hardest in benefiting people. It encourages us to prioritize individuals based on their dedication and commitment to serving humanity, rather than their social status or worldly achievements. By embodying this principle, we create a society that promotes selflessness, compassion, and collective progress. May Allah guide us to be among those who strive sincerely in benefiting others and grant us the ability to love and appreciate such individuals.