Hadith #901

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

People are more in need of good etiquette than of silver and gold.

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette in our lives. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (adab) "أدب" in this Hadith refers to good manners, etiquette, and proper conduct. It encompasses a wide range of virtues such as respect, kindness, patience, humility, and honesty. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that possessing good etiquette is more valuable than material wealth, symbolized here by "silver and gold."

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 the significance of knowing and understanding one another, which can only be achieved through good manners and respectful behavior.

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 emphasizes the importance of speaking with kindness and choosing our words wisely, as it has the power to either unite or divide people.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound impact that good etiquette can have on individuals and society as a whole. When we interact with others in a respectful and considerate manner, we create an environment of harmony and unity. Good manners foster strong relationships, build trust, and promote a sense of empathy and compassion.

Conversely, the absence of good etiquette can lead to discord, animosity, and a breakdown in relationships. The Quran warns against arrogance, harshness, and disrespectful behavior. In Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the development of good manners and etiquette. It encourages us to reflect upon our own behavior and strive to embody the noble qualities exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By doing so, we can contribute to the betterment of society and fulfill our duty as ambassadors of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that good etiquette is more valuable than material wealth. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect, kindness, and empathy. By embodying these virtues, we can create a harmonious and compassionate society, fulfilling the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to develop and practice good etiquette in all aspects of our lives.