Hadith #6134

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لايَسْتَرِقَّنَّكَ الطَّمَعُ وَقَدْ جَعَلَكَ اللّهُ حُرّاً۔

This Hadith carries a wise message about the dangers of covetousness and the freedom that Allah has bestowed upon us.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (layastariqannaka) "لايَسْتَرِقَّنَّكَ" is derived from the root word (saraqa) "سَرَقَ", which means to steal or to take something unlawfully. In this context, it refers to covetousness or greed that steals away one's contentment and satisfaction. The word (at-tama') "الطَّمَعُ" signifies an intense desire for wealth, power, or possessions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us not to let covetousness enslave us. This means that we should not allow our desires and cravings to control our actions and thoughts. We should not become slaves to our materialistic desires, as it goes against the freedom that Allah has granted us.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us 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 highlights the prohibition of unlawfully acquiring wealth and the consequences of such actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking sustenance and provisions from Allah, rather than relying on our own desires and greed.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that Allah has made us free. This freedom is not just physical, but also spiritual and intellectual. It is a freedom from the shackles of materialistic desires and the pursuit of worldly possessions. It is a freedom to seek contentment and satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah and the pursuit of righteousness.

The consequences of allowing covetousness to enslave us are detrimental. It leads to a never-ending cycle of dissatisfaction, envy, and greed. It blinds us from recognizing the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon us and prevents us from being grateful for what we have. It also hinders our spiritual growth and distances us from the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sets an example for us with his profound knowledge and understanding. He was known for his asceticism and detachment from worldly possessions. His contentment and reliance on Allah were evident in his actions and teachings. He lived a life of simplicity and humility, despite having the opportunity to possess great wealth and power.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for us to guard ourselves against the enslavement of covetousness. We should strive to be content with what Allah has provided for us and seek sustenance through lawful means. By doing so, we can attain true freedom and spiritual growth. May Allah guide us all to the path of righteousness and protect us from the pitfalls of greed.