Hadith #6943

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 above mentioned Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights some of the noble qualities that a Muslim should possess. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its profound meanings and drawing upon the guidance of the Quran.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his admiration for a person who forgives the one who has wronged him. The act of forgiveness is highly regarded in Islam, as it reflects the mercy and compassion that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us. The Quran emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in numerous verses, such as in Surah Al-Imran (3:134), where it states,

And those who forgive and overlook, indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

Forgiving those who have wronged us not only purifies our hearts, but it also promotes harmony and unity within the Muslim community. It is a means of breaking the cycle of hatred and resentment, and instead fostering an environment of love and understanding.

Secondly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages establishing ties with those who have severed their relationship with us. This highlights the importance of maintaining family and social bonds, even in the face of adversity. The Quran emphasizes the significance of upholding family ties in Surah An-Nisa (4:1), where it states,

And fear Allah through whom you ask one another, and the wombs. Indeed, Allah is ever, over you, an Observer.

By reaching out to those who have cut us off, we demonstrate our commitment to the teachings of Islam and our desire for reconciliation. This act of kindness can have a profound impact on the hearts of others, fostering love and unity within the Muslim community.

Thirdly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages giving to those who have deprived us. This highlights the virtue of generosity and selflessness in Islam. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving to those in need, such as in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177), where it states,

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.

By giving to those who have deprived us, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's provision and our willingness to share our blessings with others. This act of charity not only benefits the recipient but also purifies our wealth and strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises responding to evil with goodness. This highlights the importance of maintaining a high moral standard, even in the face of adversity. The Quran encourages responding to evil with goodness in Surah Fussilat (41:34), where it states,

And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.

Responding to evil with goodness not only diffuses tension but also serves as a means of inviting others towards the path of righteousness. It is a reflection of the character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who exemplified this noble trait throughout their lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a comprehensive guide for Muslims, urging them to embody forgiveness, establish ties, give to those in need, and respond to evil with goodness. These qualities are not only praised by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) but are also deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. By incorporating these virtues into our lives, we can strive towards becoming better Muslims and contributing to a more harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and seek His pleasure.