Hadith #2104

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ كَثُرَ حِرْصُهُ ذَلَّ قَدْرُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose greed increases, his status is lowered.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (his greed) "حِرْصُهُ" refers to an excessive desire for wealth, power, or material possessions. It signifies a state of covetousness and an insatiable craving for more. Greed is a negative trait that can consume a person's heart and lead them astray from the path of righteousness.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the destructive nature of greed in the Quran. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 63:9)

O you who have believed, let not your wealth and your children divert you from remembrance of Allah. And whoever does that - then those are the losers.

This verse highlights the danger of allowing our desires and attachments to worldly possessions to distract us from our spiritual obligations. When greed takes hold of a person, it blinds them to the true purpose of life and leads them towards spiritual bankruptcy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the consequences of unchecked greed in this Hadith. He states that when a person's greed increases, their status is lowered. This implies that excessive greed diminishes a person's honor, respect, and dignity in the eyes of others.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of contentment and moderation in our desires. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah, (Quran 4:32)

And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of his bounty. Indeed Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing.

This verse reminds us that Allah has apportioned sustenance and blessings to each individual according to His wisdom. We should not be envious or covetous of what others possess, as it goes against the divine decree. Instead, we should seek Allah's blessings through sincere supplication and trust in His providence.

When a person's greed increases, it leads to negative consequences not only in this world but also in the hereafter. The Quran warns us about the punishment that awaits those who prioritize worldly gains over their spiritual well-being. Allah says in Surah Al-Takathur, (Quran 102:1-8)

Competition in [worldly] increase diverts you until you visit the graveyards. No! You are going to know. Then no! You are going to know. No! If you only knew with knowledge of certainty... You will surely see the Hellfire. Then you will surely see it with the eye of certainty. Then you will surely be asked that Day about pleasure.

This powerful passage reminds us of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the ultimate accountability we will face in the hereafter. The pursuit of material wealth at the expense of our spiritual growth and moral values will only lead to regret and punishment.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the importance of cultivating contentment, gratitude, and detachment from worldly desires. By restraining our greed and focusing on the pursuit of spiritual excellence, we can elevate our status in the sight of Allah and earn the respect and admiration of others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to guard against the destructive nature of greed. By restraining our desires and seeking contentment in the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah, we can elevate our status and lead a life of spiritual fulfillment. May Allah protect us from the pitfalls of greed and guide us towards the path of righteousness.