Hadith #7958

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights a profound aspect of human behavior and serves as a reminder for all Muslims. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its important words and their meanings in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (disapproves) "أنْكَرَ", (faults) "عُيُوبَ", (accepts them) "رَضِيَها", and (fool) "أحْمَقُ".

The word (disapproves) "أنْكَرَ" implies recognizing and acknowledging the shortcomings or flaws in others. It signifies the act of criticizing or finding fault in the actions, behavior, or character of individuals. However, the Hadith cautions against a specific attitude towards this disapproval.

The term (faults) "عُيُوبَ" refers to imperfections or weaknesses in people. It encompasses both major and minor flaws that individuals may possess. It is important to note that this word does not refer to sins or acts of disobedience, but rather to inherent human weaknesses.

The phrase (accepts them in himself) "رَضِيَها لِنَفْسِهِ" signifies a contrasting behavior. It implies that while one may disapprove of the faults in others, they are willing to accept and tolerate those same faults within themselves. This attitude reflects a lack of self-awareness and humility.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes such an individual as (a fool) "الأحْمَقُ". This term denotes someone who lacks wisdom, understanding, and insight. It highlights the irrationality and foolishness of accepting one's own faults while criticizing others for the same.

To further understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding mockery and ridicule towards others. It encourages us to refrain from belittling or looking down upon individuals, as they may possess qualities or virtues that we are unaware of. It reminds us to be humble and to recognize the potential for goodness in every person.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Isra (17:70), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse highlights the inherent honor and dignity bestowed upon every human being by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that we are all equal in the sight of our Creator, regardless of our faults or weaknesses. Therefore, it is unwise and unjust to disapprove of others while accepting our own faults.

Reflecting on the enlightening message of this Hadith, we realize that it calls us to introspection and self-improvement. It urges us to focus on our own faults and strive to rectify them, rather than being preoccupied with the shortcomings of others. By doing so, we cultivate humility, self-awareness, and a genuine desire for personal growth.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with kindness, empathy, and understanding. It encourages us to be compassionate and forgiving towards the faults of our fellow Muslims, recognizing that we are all fallible human beings in need of Allah's mercy and forgiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of self-reflection, humility, and empathy. It warns against the foolishness of criticizing others while accepting our own faults. By embracing these teachings, we can foster a harmonious and compassionate society, where individuals strive for self-improvement and treat others with kindness and understanding. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to implement these teachings in our lives.