Hadith #3455

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لاتَجْتَمِعُ الخِيانَةُ، والاُخُوَّةُ۔" This Hadith is translated as,

Treachery and brotherhood do not go together.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning and significance of this beautiful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (khiyanah) "خِيانَةُ" refers to treachery or betrayal. It is an act of deceit and disloyalty towards someone who trusts you. On the other hand, the word (ukhwah) "اُخُوَّةُ" means brotherhood or unity. It signifies the bond of love, trust, and solidarity between individuals. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the inherent contradiction between these two concepts. Treachery and brotherhood cannot coexist, as they represent opposite ends of the moral spectrum.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of trust, loyalty, and brotherhood among Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10),

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers.

This verse clearly establishes the foundation of brotherhood within the Muslim community and encourages reconciliation and unity among believers.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against treachery and betrayal, stating,

And say: My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's protection from treacherous acts and seeking His guidance to maintain integrity and righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims about the importance of upholding trust and loyalty within the bonds of brotherhood. When individuals engage in treacherous acts, they not only break the trust of others but also disrupt the harmony and unity within the community. Treachery erodes the foundation of brotherhood, leading to division, animosity, and a breakdown of relationships.

For example, if a person betrays the trust of their fellow Muslim by spreading false rumors or divulging confidential information, it not only damages the relationship between them but also creates a ripple effect within the community. Others may become hesitant to trust one another, leading to a breakdown in unity and cooperation.

Conversely, when Muslims uphold the principles of brotherhood, they strengthen the bonds of trust and unity within the community. This fosters an environment of love, support, and cooperation, enabling Muslims to work together towards common goals and overcome challenges collectively.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reflection. It prompts us to evaluate our own actions and intentions. Are we being loyal and trustworthy in our relationships? Are we upholding the principles of brotherhood and unity? By constantly assessing ourselves, we can strive to align our behavior with the teachings of Islam and avoid any form of treachery or betrayal.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Treachery and brotherhood do not go together,

highlights the inherent contradiction between these two concepts. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to uphold trust, loyalty, and unity within the bonds of brotherhood. By avoiding treacherous acts and fostering an environment of trust and cooperation, we can strengthen our communities and strive towards a harmonious society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to be trustworthy and loyal, and may He bless us with true brotherhood among Muslims.