Hadith #311

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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,

The biggest wealth is that one should not have an eye on what others possess.

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of contentment and detachment from material possessions. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (the biggest wealth) "الْغِنَى الاْكْبَرُ" and (not having an eye on what others possess)

الْيَأْسُ عَمَّا فِي أَيْدِى النَّاسِ

The term (wealth) "الْغِنَى" refers to an abundance of resources and possessions. It encompasses both material and spiritual wealth. However, the Hadith emphasizes that the greatest form of wealth is not measured by the quantity of possessions one has, but rather by the state of contentment and detachment from worldly desires.

To further understand the concept of contentment and detachment from material possessions, let us turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (consciousness of Allah). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights that the true provision and wealth lies in the consciousness of Allah and the fear of Him. It is through this spiritual connection that one finds true contentment and satisfaction, regardless of their material possessions.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 80, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And establish prayer and give Zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience].

This verse emphasizes the importance of establishing prayer and giving Zakah, which are acts of worship that promote detachment from worldly possessions. By fulfilling these obligations, one cultivates a sense of gratitude and contentment, recognizing that true wealth lies in the obedience and worship of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement encourages Muslims to focus on their own blessings and not to be envious or covetous of what others possess. This teaching aligns with the Quranic principle of gratitude and contentment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nahl, verse 53:

And whatever blessings and favors you have, it is from Allah.

This verse reminds us that all blessings come from Allah, and we should be grateful for what we have been given, rather than desiring what others possess.

When one constantly compares themselves to others and desires what they have, it leads to dissatisfaction, envy, and a never-ending pursuit of material wealth. This mindset can be detrimental to one's spiritual well-being and can prevent them from attaining true contentment and inner peace.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to focus on their own spiritual growth and to be content with what Allah has provided for them. By detaching ourselves from the materialistic desires of this world, we can redirect our energy towards seeking closeness to Allah and fulfilling our responsibilities towards Him and our fellow human beings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of contentment and detachment from material possessions. It reminds us that true wealth lies in the consciousness of Allah and being grateful for what we have been given. By focusing on our own blessings and not coveting what others possess, we can attain true contentment and inner peace. May Allah guide us all to embody the teachings of this Hadith and grant us the ability to be content with His blessings.