Hadith #3232

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 noble companions.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to compete in acquiring three important qualities: desirable character, great forbearance, and lofty ideas. Let us delve into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, the term (desirable character) "الأخلاقِ الرَّغيبَةِ" refers to the moral and ethical qualities that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses virtues such as honesty, kindness, patience, humility, and generosity. The Quran emphasizes the importance of good character in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4),

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the exemplary character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), serving as a role model for all Muslims to emulate.

Furthermore, the term (great forbearance) "الأحْلامِ العَظيمَةِ" refers to the ability to remain patient and composed in the face of adversity, to restrain oneself from anger and impulsive reactions, and to forgive others. The Quran encourages believers to practice forbearance and patience in various situations. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of controlling one's anger and forgiving others, which are essential components of great forbearance.

Lastly, the term (lofty ideas) "الأخْطارِ الجَليلَةِ" refers to having noble aspirations, ambitious goals, and a vision for the betterment of oneself and society. It entails striving for excellence in all aspects of life, seeking knowledge, and working towards the betterment of humanity. The Quran encourages believers to have lofty aspirations and to strive for excellence. In Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support in pursuing noble goals.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to compete in acquiring these qualities because they have profound implications for our spiritual and worldly lives. By striving to develop desirable character, we become better individuals, fostering harmonious relationships with others and embodying the teachings of Islam. Great forbearance enables us to navigate through challenges and conflicts with patience and wisdom, leading to peaceful resolutions and personal growth. Lofty ideas inspire us to dream big, to make positive contributions to society, and to leave a lasting impact on future generations.

The consequences of embodying these qualities are immense. By acquiring desirable character, great forbearance, and lofty ideas, we not only attain personal growth and success in this world but also earn a great reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the Hereafter. Our actions and intentions are of utmost importance to Allah, and He rewards those who strive to embody these qualities. As Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.

In conclusion, this hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to compete in acquiring desirable character, great forbearance, and lofty ideas. These qualities are deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran and have far-reaching implications for our personal and spiritual growth. By embodying these qualities, we not only become better individuals but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to strive for these qualities and reward us abundantly in this world and the Hereafter.