Now, the man became worried. He quickly accepted the returned dates and handed back the money to the slave girl. He then humbly presented himself before Sayyidunā Ali رَضِىَ الـلّٰـهُ عَـنْهُ, saying, “Respected sir! I wish that you become pleased with me.”

Sayyidunā Ali رَضِىَ الـلّٰـهُ عَـنْهُ responded, “If you want to please me, fulfil the rights of people properly.”^[1]

صَلُّوۡا عَلَى الۡحَبِيۡب                 صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلٰى مُحَمَّد

O devotees of the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم! There are many things to learn from this incident. Firstly, look at the humility of Sayyidunā Ali رَضِىَ الـلّٰـهُ عَـنْهُ. Despite being the leader of the faithful and caliph of the Muslims, he would come to the marketplace like a normal person, without any protocol. Secondly, reflect upon how the man shoved him, which was disrespectful, and yet he did not punish him in return.

The humility of Sayyidunā Ali رَضِىَ الـلّٰـهُ عَـنْهُ

سُبْحٰنَ اللہ May Allah Almighty grant us the wealth of humility. It is said regarding Sayyidunā Ali رَضِىَ الـلّٰـهُ عَـنْهُ that despite being the leader of the faithful, when he would visit the marketplace, if someone dropped an item, he would pick it up and give it to the person; if a person lost his way, he would give directions; if someone was carrying a heavy load, he would aid them.^[2]

If only we too would adopt humility. If we attain some kind of status or become rich, it does not mean that we should fall prey to arrogance and look down upon the less fortunate. We must never do this! Instead, help the creation of Allah Almighty, serve people and aid the poor.