Hadith #1627

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "التاجر مخاطر" which translates to

The merchant puts himself at risk [of doing something that is forbidden].

This Hadith highlights the potential dangers and risks that merchants face in their business dealings, specifically the temptation to engage in forbidden actions.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 188:

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of consuming others' wealth unjustly or engaging in bribery to gain unlawful advantages. It serves as a reminder to merchants that they must uphold the principles of honesty, integrity, and fairness in their business transactions. By doing so, they protect themselves from the risks of engaging in forbidden actions and ensure that their earnings are lawful and blessed.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 275, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Those who consume interest cannot stand [on the Day of Resurrection] except as one stands who is being beaten by Satan into insanity. That is because they say, 'Trade is [just] like interest.' But Allah has permitted trade and has forbidden interest.

This verse highlights the grave consequences of engaging in usury or interest-based transactions. It serves as a warning to merchants about the dangers of seeking unlawful gains through exploitative practices. The comparison made between trade and interest emphasizes the importance of conducting business in a manner that is permissible and free from any form of exploitation or injustice.

Drawing from these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is a reminder to merchants about the risks they face in their pursuit of wealth. It serves as a cautionary message, urging them to be mindful of their actions and to avoid engaging in forbidden practices such as fraud, deceit, or exploitation.

The merchant who puts himself at risk of doing something forbidden jeopardizes not only his own spiritual well-being but also the trust and integrity of the entire business community. Such actions can have far-reaching consequences, not only in this world but also in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the importance of conducting business with integrity and righteousness. His words serve as a reminder to all Muslims, both Shia and Sunni, that our actions in the realm of commerce should be guided by the principles of justice, honesty, and fairness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the risks and temptations that merchants face in their pursuit of wealth. It serves as a call to uphold the principles of honesty, integrity, and fairness in all our business dealings. By doing so, we protect ourselves from the dangers of engaging in forbidden actions and ensure that our earnings are lawful and blessed. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to conduct our affairs in a manner that is pleasing to Him.