Hadith #11047

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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 certain contradictory traits and behaviors that are not befitting of a righteous individual. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The Hadith begins by stating,

He loves to be obeyed while he disobeys.

This phrase emphasizes the hypocrisy of an individual who desires obedience from others while disregarding their own obligations and responsibilities. This behavior contradicts the teachings of Islam, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands us to fulfill our duties and obligations faithfully. Allah says in the Quran (2:85),

Then is it only a part of the Book that you believe in, and do you disbelieve in the rest? But what is the recompense for those who do that among you except disgrace in worldly life; and on the Day of Resurrection they will be sent back to the severest of punishment.

The Hadith further states,

He loves to be given his full share while he does not give others their dues.

This phrase highlights the injustice of an individual who expects to receive their rightful share but fails to fulfill the rights of others. Islam emphasizes fairness and justice in all aspects of life. Allah says in the Quran (4:58),

Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.

The Hadith continues,

He loves to be described as generous while he does not give [anything to the needy].

This phrase exposes the hypocrisy of an individual who seeks praise for their generosity but fails to extend a helping hand to those in need. Islam encourages believers to be generous and charitable, as Allah promises immense rewards for those who give for His sake. Allah says in the Quran (2:261),

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

Lastly, the Hadith states,

He loves to seek from others what is due to him while not letting others ask for their rights from him.

This phrase exposes the selfishness of an individual who demands their rights but denies others the opportunity to seek justice. Islam emphasizes the importance of upholding the rights of others and treating them with fairness and respect. Allah says in the Quran (4:135),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of embodying righteousness, justice, and generosity in all aspects of our lives. It warns against the hypocrisy of desiring obedience, seeking one's own rights, and being praised for generosity while neglecting our obligations towards others. May we strive to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in order to attain true righteousness and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).