Hadith #3090

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he mentions three actions that a person should not feel ashamed of. Let us delve into the meanings of these actions and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first action mentioned is (خِدْمَةُ الرَّجُلِ ضَيْفَهُ) "serving one's guest". The concept of hospitality is highly emphasized in Islam, and it is considered a noble act to serve and honor one's guests. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran:

(Quran 76:8-9)

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse highlights the virtue of feeding others solely for the sake of Allah, without expecting anything in return. Serving one's guest is an act of kindness and generosity that brings immense blessings and rewards. It is a means of expressing gratitude to Allah for the blessings He has bestowed upon us.

The second action mentioned is (وقِيامُهُ عَنْ مَجْلِسِهِ لأبيهِ ومُعَلِّمِهِ)

standing up from one's place for his father or his teacher

This teaches us the importance of showing respect and honor to our parents and teachers. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands us in the Quran:

(Quran 17:23)

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

Respecting and obeying our parents and teachers is a fundamental principle in Islam. It is a means of attaining closeness to Allah and seeking His pleasure. Standing up from our place when our father or teacher enters the room is a gesture of honor and reverence, reflecting the importance of their role in our lives.

The third action mentioned is (وطَلَبُ الْحَقِّ وإنْ قَلَّ)

seeking the right even if it is little

This emphasizes the importance of seeking and upholding justice, even in situations where the truth may be scarce or unpopular. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran:

(Quran 5:8)

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

Seeking the truth and upholding justice are essential principles in Islam. It is our duty as Muslims to stand up for what is right, even if it means going against the majority or facing difficulties. Seeking the truth, regardless of its magnitude, demonstrates our commitment to righteousness and our submission to the commandments of Allah.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of serving others, respecting our parents and teachers, and seeking justice. These actions are not to be ashamed of, as they are rooted in the teachings of Islam and are highly regarded in the Quran. By practicing these virtues, we can strive to embody the noble qualities exemplified by the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims. May Allah guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.