Hadith #209

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

It is strange that the jealous do not feel jealous about bodily health.

This beautiful Hadith highlights the irony of those who harbor jealousy towards others, yet fail to be concerned about their own physical well-being.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The term (ghaflah) "غَفْلَةِ" refers to heedlessness or negligence. It is a state of being unaware or indifferent to something. In this context, it refers to the lack of concern or attention given by the jealous individuals towards their own bodily health.

The word (husaad) "حُسَّادِ" translates to jealousy or envy. Jealousy is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what others possess, whether it be material possessions, talents, or qualities. It is a destructive emotion that can consume a person's heart and lead to harmful actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the irony of the jealous individuals who are so consumed by their envy towards others that they neglect their own physical well-being. This neglect can have severe consequences on their health and overall quality of life.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of taking care of our bodies in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 87:

O you who have believed, do not prohibit the good things which Allah has made lawful to you and do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse reminds us that Allah has made certain things permissible for us to enjoy and benefit from, including the blessings of good health. Neglecting our physical well-being due to jealousy or any other reason would be a form of transgression, as it goes against the natural order established by Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 195, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs us to take care of our bodies:

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of spending in the way of Allah, which includes taking care of our own well-being. Neglecting our health due to jealousy or any other negative emotion would be akin to throwing ourselves into destruction. Instead, we are encouraged to do good and take care of our bodies, as Allah loves those who do good.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. Jealousy is a destructive emotion that not only harms our relationships with others but also has detrimental effects on our own well-being. By focusing on the success and blessings of others, we neglect our own physical health, which is a precious gift from Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us to be mindful of this irony and to prioritize our own well-being. We should strive to overcome jealousy and instead channel our energy towards self-improvement and personal growth. By taking care of our bodies and maintaining good health, we can lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize the destructive nature of jealousy and the motivation to prioritize our physical well-being. May He bless us with good health and guide us on the path of righteousness.