Hadith #7271

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The magnanimity of an intelligent person is his religion and his distinction is his etiquette.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "muruwwah" in Arabic, which is translated as "magnanimity" in this Hadith, refers to the noble qualities and virtues that a person possesses. It encompasses integrity, honor, righteousness, and moral excellence. It is the embodiment of a person's character and conduct, reflecting their inner piety and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith emphasizes that the true essence of a person's magnanimity lies in their religion. This means that a person's religious beliefs, practices, and adherence to the teachings of Islam are the foundation of their character and conduct. It is through their commitment to their faith that they acquire the virtues and qualities that define their magnanimity.

To understand the significance of religion in shaping one's magnanimity, we turn to the Quran. 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 magnanimity are not based on worldly factors such as wealth, lineage, or social status. Rather, it is the righteousness and piety of an individual that determines their true worth in the sight of Allah. Therefore, a person's religion, their faith in Allah, and their commitment to following His guidance are the key factors that shape their magnanimity.

The second part of the Hadith states that the distinction of an intelligent person lies in their etiquette. The word "adab" in Arabic refers to manners, behavior, and etiquette. It encompasses the way a person conducts themselves in their interactions with others, showing respect, kindness, and consideration.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4),

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse is a testament to the exemplary manners of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who serves as the ultimate role model for all Muslims.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to say,

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 highlights the importance of speaking with kindness and choosing words that are pleasing to Allah. It emphasizes the significance of good manners in promoting harmony and unity among people.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true distinction lies not in material possessions or worldly achievements, but in the way we conduct ourselves and treat others. It is through our etiquette and manners that we leave a lasting impact on those around us.

When an intelligent person embodies both magnanimity through their religion and distinction through their etiquette, they become a beacon of light and guidance for others. Their actions and words reflect the beauty and wisdom of Islam, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true magnanimity and distinction are rooted in our religion and etiquette. By nurturing our faith and embodying the teachings of Islam in our behavior, we can attain a level of excellence that elevates our character and impacts the lives of those around us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to embody the magnanimity and distinction described in this Hadith.