Hadith #10757

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

وَجِيهُ النّاسِ مَنْ تَواضَعَ مَعَ رِفْعَة، وذَلَّ مَعَ مَنَعَة۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

The most eminent person is one who is humble despite his high standing and who shows humility despite his might.

Let us delve into the meanings of some important words in this Hadith. The word (wajih) "وَجِيهُ" refers to someone who is eminent, distinguished, or honorable. (tawada'a) "تَواضَعَ" means to be humble, modest, or unassuming. (rif'ah) "رِفْعَة" signifies high standing, rank, or position. (dalla) "ذَلَّ" means to humble oneself or to show humility. (mana'ah) "مَنَعَة" refers to might, power, or authority.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of humility in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah 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 highlights that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety, not in worldly status or power. It is the one who humbles themselves before Allah and treats others with kindness and respect who is truly honorable in the sight of Allah.

Another verse that resonates with the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), where Allah says,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse reminds us that seeking exaltedness and power in this worldly life is not the ultimate goal. Rather, the true success and honor lie in righteousness and seeking the pleasure of Allah. It is through humility and selflessness that one can attain true eminence in the eyes of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this teaching in his own life. Despite his high position as the Caliph and his unparalleled knowledge, he remained humble and approachable. He would often be seen performing menial tasks, treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their social status.

This Hadith teaches us that true greatness is not measured by wealth, power, or status, but by one's character and humility. It reminds us that even if we possess high standing or authority, we should never let it cloud our judgment or make us arrogant. Instead, we should use our position to serve others, show kindness, and uplift those around us.

By embodying the qualities of humility and modesty, we can create an atmosphere of harmony and unity within our communities. When people see those in positions of power and authority displaying humility, it inspires them to do the same. This fosters a culture of mutual respect and cooperation, where everyone's contributions are valued and appreciated.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of humility and modesty, regardless of our social standing or authority. It reminds us that true eminence lies in righteousness and piety, not in worldly power or wealth. By following the example of Imam Ali and seeking guidance from the Quran, we can strive to be the most eminent individuals in the sight of Allah. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to embody these qualities in our lives.