Hadith #10810

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أفْضَلُ النّاسِ مِنَّةً مَنْ بَدَأَ بِالمَوَدَّةِ۔

This Hadith highlights the virtue of initiating friendship and showing kindness to others. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (minnah) "مِنَّةً" in the Hadith refers to favors or acts of kindness. It signifies going above and beyond in showing goodness to others. The word (mawaddah) "مَوَدَّةِ" means friendship or love. It emphasizes the importance of starting any interaction or relationship with a foundation of love and affection.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the significance of kindness, love, and friendship in our interactions with others. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah says,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse encourages Muslims to treat each other like brothers and sisters, fostering a bond of love and unity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Rum (30:21), Allah reminds us,

And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who give thought.

This verse highlights the importance of love and affection in marital relationships, which serves as a foundation for a peaceful and harmonious life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the virtue of being the first to initiate friendship and kindness. It encourages Muslims to take the initiative in building relationships based on love and compassion. By doing so, we not only fulfill the rights of others but also create an atmosphere of harmony and unity within our communities.

When we begin our interactions with friendship and kindness, we set a positive tone that can have far-reaching consequences. It creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to reciprocate the same level of love and kindness. This Hadith teaches us that by being the first to extend a hand of friendship, we become the best among people in granting favors.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. He understood the importance of initiating relationships on a foundation of love and friendship. By following his example, we can cultivate an environment of compassion and understanding, where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the virtue of initiating friendship and showing kindness to others. It reminds us of the importance of love and compassion in our interactions, as emphasized in the Quran. By being the first to extend a hand of friendship, we become the best among people in granting favors. Let us strive to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and create a society built on love, kindness, and unity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with the ability to embody these noble qualities.