Hadith #929

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who is lowered by his lineage is elevated by his good etiquette.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquettes in Islam. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (qa'ada) "قَعَدَ" in Arabic means to sit or to be in a state of lowliness. It symbolizes a person's social status or position in society, which is often determined by their lineage or family background. On the other hand, the word (adabuhu) "أَدَبُهُ" refers to good manners, etiquette, and refinement of character. It encompasses all aspects of a person's behavior, including their speech, actions, and interactions with others.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that true nobility and honor are not based on one's lineage or social status, but rather on their righteousness and piety. A person's worth in the sight of Allah is determined by their character and conduct, not by their family background or worldly possessions. Therefore, if someone is considered lowly or insignificant in the eyes of society due to their lineage, they can elevate themselves through their good manners and etiquettes.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquettes in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse encourages Muslims to choose their words wisely and speak in the best manner possible. It reminds us that our speech should be characterized by kindness, respect, and sincerity. By practicing good manners in our speech, we can foster harmony and unity among people, while protecting ourselves from the whispers of Satan.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that our character and conduct are more important than our lineage or social status. It teaches us that true honor and nobility lie in the refinement of our manners and the way we treat others. Regardless of our background, we have the power to elevate ourselves through acts of kindness, humility, and respect.

For example, if someone comes from a humble background or faces discrimination due to their lineage, they can overcome these challenges by embodying the values of Islam. By treating others with kindness, compassion, and fairness, they can earn the respect and admiration of those around them. Their good manners and etiquettes will serve as a testament to their true worth and elevate them in the eyes of Allah and the Muslim community.

Conversely, if someone comes from a privileged background or holds a high social status, they should not let arrogance or pride overshadow their good manners. The Quran warns against arrogance in Surah Al-Hadid (57:23),

So that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse reminds us that material wealth and social status are temporary and fleeting. They should not be a source of arrogance or pride. Instead, we should remain humble and grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us, and use our privileges to serve others and uphold the values of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that good manners and etiquettes hold great significance in Islam. It reminds us that true honor and nobility are not determined by our lineage or social status, but by our character and conduct. By embodying the values of Islam and treating others with kindness, respect, and fairness, we can elevate ourselves and earn the favor of Allah. Let us strive to cultivate good manners and etiquettes in our daily lives, and may Allah guide us on the path of righteousness.