Hadith #9016

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

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us against the dangers of arrogance and haughtiness. He advises us to avoid behaving in a superior and condescending manner towards the servants of Allah. The word (tajabbur) "تَجَبُّرَ" in the hadith refers to the act of being arrogant, proud, and looking down upon others.

To understand the significance of this warning, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of humility and warns against arrogance. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:37)

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth apart, and you will never reach the mountains in height

This verse reminds us that no matter how powerful or influential we may think we are, we are still limited beings in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Luqman, Allah says, (Quran 31:18)

Do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful

This verse highlights the displeasure of Allah towards those who display arrogance and pride. It reminds us that true greatness lies in humility and treating others with kindness and respect.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains the consequences of arrogance in this hadith. He states that every haughty individual will be crushed by Allah. This crushing can be understood in both a physical and spiritual sense. Physically, it may refer to the downfall and humiliation that arrogant people often face in this world. They may lose their status, wealth, or influence, as Allah brings them low to teach them a lesson.

Spiritually, the crushing refers to the punishment that awaits the arrogant in the hereafter. In Surah Al-Hajj, Allah says, (Quran 25:27-29)

And the Day the wrongdoer will bite on his hands [in regret] he will say, 'Oh, I wish I had taken with the Messenger a way. Oh, woe to me! I wish I had not taken that one as a friend. He led me away from the remembrance after it had come to me. And ever is Satan, to man, a deserter'

These verses depict the regret and remorse of those who followed their own desires and ignored the guidance of the Prophet (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

The consequences of arrogance are severe, both in this life and the hereafter. Arrogance distances us from Allah's mercy and guidance, and it leads to the destruction of our own souls. It blinds us to our own faults and prevents us from seeking forgiveness and repentance. Therefore, it is essential for us as Muslims to reflect on this hadith and strive to cultivate humility in our hearts and interactions with others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was the epitome of knowledge and humility. His deep understanding of the Quran and his unwavering devotion to Allah allowed him to recognize the dangers of arrogance. He led by example, treating all people with respect and kindness, regardless of their social status or background. As Muslims, we should strive to follow in his footsteps and emulate his noble qualities.

In conclusion, this hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for us to avoid arrogance and haughtiness. It teaches us the importance of humility and the consequences that await those who display arrogance. May Allah protect us from the traps of arrogance and guide us on the path of humility and righteousness.