Question

What is the reliability of this Hadith?

“Join ties with those who sever ties with you, do good to those who harm you and speak the truth even if it is against you”

Answer

These words have been recorded  on the authority of Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radiyallahu ‘anhu) who stated that he found these words inscribed on piece of cloth and placed into the pommel of Nabi’s (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) sword.

This narration is  recorded by Imam Ibn Najjar and in a Hadith Juz’ of Abu ‘Ali ibn Shadhan.

Hafiz Ibn Hajar Al ‘Asqalani (rahimahullah) has pointed out a weak narrator in the chain.

(Refer: At Talkhisul Habir, vol. 4, pg. 1897 and Kanzul ‘Ummal, Hadith: 6929)

The Hadith in question however is well supported by many corroborating narrations which bring up the level of authenticity and is therefore suitable. See another version here.

(Also see: Targhib, vol. 3, pg. 308)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar