Hadith #159

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure family, his noble companions, and all the righteous Muslims.

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

كَمْ مِنْ أَكْلَةٍ مَنَعَتْ أَكَلاَتٍ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

Many a single eating prevents several eatings.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of moderation and self-control in our daily lives, particularly in matters of sustenance and consumption.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words and their implications. The word (eating) "أَكْلَةٍ" refers to the act of consuming food. It encompasses not only the physical act of eating but also the broader concept of sustenance and nourishment. The word (prevents) "مَنَعَتْ" implies the act of restraining or holding back. It suggests that by exercising moderation and self-control in our eating habits, we can prevent excessive indulgence and wastefulness.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the importance of moderation and balance in all aspects of life. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31),

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

This verse reminds us that while we are allowed to enjoy the blessings of food and drink, we should not go to extremes or indulge in gluttony.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:32), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of excessive consumption, saying,

Say, 'Who has forbidden the adornment of Allah which He has produced for His servants and the good [lawful] things of provision?' Say, 'They are for those who believe during the worldly life [but] exclusively for them on the Day of Resurrection.' Thus do We detail the verses for a people who know.

This verse reminds us that the blessings of sustenance and provision are meant to be enjoyed within the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and that we will be held accountable for our actions on the Day of Resurrection.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to adopt a balanced and moderate approach towards their consumption habits. By restraining ourselves from excessive eating, we not only prevent wastage but also promote good health and well-being. This moderation extends beyond food and encompasses all aspects of our lives, including our desires, wealth, and time management.

Practicing moderation in our eating habits has numerous benefits. It helps us maintain a healthy body and mind, prevents diseases related to overeating, and enables us to appreciate the blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in a more mindful manner. Moreover, by being mindful of our consumption, we can also develop empathy towards those who are less fortunate and share our resources with them, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9).

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to practice moderation and self-control in their eating habits. By restraining ourselves from excessive indulgence, we not only prevent wastage but also promote good health, mindfulness, and empathy towards others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our daily lives.