Hadith #1572

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of being cautious and mindful of the actions we approve of and participate in. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares the one who is pleased with the actions of a group to someone who is actually involved in those actions. This comparison serves as a reminder that our approval or satisfaction with certain actions carries weight and consequences.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (raadi) "رَاضِي" means one who is pleased or satisfied. This implies a level of acceptance and contentment with the actions of others. The word (fi'l) "فِعْل" refers to actions or deeds. It encompasses both good and bad actions. The word (qawm) "قَوْم" refers to a group or community. It signifies a collective entity whose actions are being discussed.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that for every individual who participates in falsehood, there are two sins associated with it. The first sin is the act of being pleased with the falsehood or approving of it. This highlights the importance of maintaining a discerning and critical mindset when it comes to the actions of others. We should not blindly accept or support actions that go against the teachings of Islam.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2):

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse emphasizes the importance of supporting and participating in righteous actions, while refraining from any form of collaboration in sinful or aggressive behavior. It reinforces the idea that our approval or participation in wrongdoing carries consequences.

Another relevant verse is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9):

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of standing up against oppression and injustice. It reminds us that we should not be passive or complacent when it comes to supporting actions that go against the principles of justice and fairness.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we realize that our approval or satisfaction with the actions of others has consequences. By being pleased with falsehood, we are indirectly participating in it and incurring the sin associated with it. This Hadith serves as a reminder for us to be vigilant in our choices and to align ourselves with actions that are in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

As Muslims, it is our duty to promote righteousness, justice, and piety. We should strive to be critical thinkers and discerning individuals, carefully evaluating the actions of others before expressing our approval or support. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always choose what is right and to be mindful of the consequences of our actions and approvals.