Hadith #9011

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

الكبر خليقة مرضية، من تكثر بها قل

which translates to

Arrogance is a destructive trait, one who seeks to increase by it, diminishes.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (al-kibr) "الكبر", which refers to arrogance or pride. Arrogance is a negative trait that stems from a sense of superiority and self-importance. It is a destructive quality that hinders personal growth, creates division among people, and distances one from the path of righteousness. The Hadith emphasizes that those who seek to increase in arrogance only end up diminishing themselves.

The Quran provides numerous verses that condemn arrogance and highlight its detrimental consequences. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (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 despite our accomplishments and abilities, we should never become arrogant, as we are mere creations of Allah and have limited power and control.

Furthermore, in Surah Luqman (31:18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of arrogance, stating,

And 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 emphasizes that Allah dislikes those who display arrogance and pride, as it goes against the humility and gratitude that should be inherent in a believer's character.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the destructive nature of arrogance. It highlights the importance of humility and self-awareness in our interactions with others and in our relationship with Allah. Arrogance blinds us from recognizing our own flaws and weaknesses, preventing us from seeking improvement and growth.

When a person becomes arrogant, they distance themselves from the teachings of Islam and the guidance of Allah. They become self-centered and fail to acknowledge the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah. This arrogance can lead to a sense of entitlement, causing one to belittle others and disregard their rights and feelings. It creates division and animosity among people, hindering the establishment of a harmonious society.

On the other hand, humility is a virtue that is highly praised in Islam. It is through humility that we recognize our dependence on Allah and our need for His guidance and mercy. Humility allows us to acknowledge our own shortcomings and seek forgiveness and improvement. It fosters empathy and compassion towards others, promoting unity and cooperation within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, warns us against the destructive nature of arrogance. His words serve as a reminder for Muslims to constantly strive for self-improvement and to guard against the pitfalls of pride. By cultivating humility and recognizing our own limitations, we can attain spiritual growth and draw closer to Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the destructive nature of arrogance and the importance of humility in our lives. It serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims to constantly strive for self-improvement and to guard against the pitfalls of pride. May Allah protect us from the destructive trait of arrogance and grant us the wisdom to cultivate humility in our hearts.