Hadith #9748

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the detrimental effects of engaging in constant arguments and disputes. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (miraa') "مِرَاءَ", which translates to "disputation" or "argument." This word encompasses the act of engaging in heated debates, quarrels, and disputes. It refers to a mindset that seeks conflict and discord rather than seeking knowledge, understanding, and unity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) cautions us that those who make disputation their habit will not find enlightenment and guidance. They will remain in the darkness of ignorance, unable to progress in their understanding of the truth. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize seeking knowledge, fostering unity, and avoiding unnecessary arguments.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge and avoiding disputes. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9):

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make peace 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 peace between them with justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes among believers in a peaceful and just manner. It encourages Muslims to seek reconciliation and unity rather than engaging in constant arguments and divisions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am (6:68), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to avoid arguments with those who engage in futile disputes:

And when you see those who engage in [offensive] discourse concerning Our verses, then turn away from them until they enter into another conversation. And if Satan should cause you to forget, then do not remain after the reminder with the wrongdoing people.

This verse teaches us that it is better to disengage from those who persistently engage in arguments and disputes, as it only leads to further discord and confusion. It is a reminder to focus on more productive and beneficial conversations that promote understanding and unity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize seeking knowledge, fostering unity, and avoiding unnecessary arguments. Engaging in constant disputes not only hinders our personal growth but also creates divisions within the Muslim community. It is essential for us to remember that our faith encourages us to seek knowledge, promote understanding, and strive for unity.

By avoiding unnecessary arguments and disputes, we can create an environment of harmony and cooperation, allowing us to collectively progress in our understanding of Islam. Let us reflect on the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to make knowledge, unity, and peace our guiding principles in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to follow this guidance and protect us from the darkness of ignorance.