Hadith #8947

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

Never debate except with one who is fair and never guide anyone but the seeker of guidance.

This enlightening saying emphasizes the importance of engaging in discussions and guiding others only when the conditions are appropriate.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (tuqawilanna) "تُقاوِلَنَّ" means

to engage in debate or argumentation.

It implies a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and opinions. The word (munṣifan) "مُنْصِفاً" refers to someone who is fair, just, and impartial. This highlights the necessity of engaging in debates only with individuals who possess these qualities.

Furthermore, the word (tursidanna) "تُرْشِدَنَّ" means

to guide or lead.

It implies providing guidance and direction to others. The word (mustarshidan) "مُسْتَرْشِداً" refers to someone who actively seeks guidance and is open to being guided. This emphasizes the importance of offering guidance only to those who genuinely seek it.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (18:29):

And say, 'The truth is from your Lord, so whoever wills - let him believe; and whoever wills - let him disbelieve.'

This verse highlights the importance of presenting the truth to people and allowing them to make their own choices. It emphasizes the principle of free will and the importance of engaging with others in a fair and respectful manner.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:256), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion.

This verse emphasizes that guidance should not be forced upon anyone. It is crucial to respect the free will and autonomy of individuals when it comes to matters of faith.

Based on these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to engage in debates and discussions only with those who are fair and open-minded. It discourages engaging in futile arguments or debates with individuals who are biased, close-minded, or insincere in their pursuit of truth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be discerning in their interactions and to prioritize meaningful dialogue. It encourages us to engage in discussions that promote understanding, mutual respect, and the pursuit of truth. By adhering to these principles, we can contribute to a more harmonious and enlightened society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us to engage in debates and guide others only when the conditions are appropriate. It emphasizes the importance of fair and respectful dialogue, and discourages futile arguments or attempts to force guidance upon others. By following these principles, we can foster an environment of intellectual growth, understanding, and mutual respect among Muslims and beyond. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to engage in fruitful discussions and guide others with sincerity and compassion.