Hadith #2224

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, and his noble companions.

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

ثَمَرَةُ الحَسَدِ شَقاءُ الدُّنيا والآخِرَةِ۔

This Hadith highlights the destructive consequences of jealousy or envy in both this world and the Hereafter.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. (thamaratu) "ثَمَرَةُ" refers to the "fruit" or outcome of an action. (al-hasad) "الحَسَدِ" translates to "jealousy" or "envy." (shaqaa) "شَقاءُ" means "wretchedness" or "misery." And (ad-dunya wa al-akhirah) "الدُّنيا والآخِرَةِ" refers to

this world and the Hereafter.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the destructive nature of jealousy in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (2:212)

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty?

Here, Allah reminds us that jealousy arises from a lack of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon others by Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa, Allah says, (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 emphasizes the importance of contentment and discourages envy by reminding us that each individual has their own unique share of blessings from Allah.

The consequences of jealousy, as mentioned in the Hadith, extend beyond this world and into the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Hashr, Allah warns, (59:27)

And if it had not been for the favor of Allah upon you and His mercy...you would have been among the losers

Jealousy blinds us to the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah, leading to a state of wretchedness and loss in both worlds.

Jealousy not only harms the individual who harbors it but also affects the overall harmony of society. It breeds animosity, resentment, and ill-will among people, leading to a toxic environment. The jealous person becomes consumed by negative emotions, unable to appreciate the blessings in their own life and constantly comparing themselves to others. This mindset prevents them from finding true happiness and contentment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy to remind us of the importance of cultivating gratitude and contentment. By focusing on our own blessings and being genuinely happy for others, we can free ourselves from the shackles of jealousy and attain true peace and tranquility.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of jealousy in both this world and the Hereafter. It urges us to reflect on our own attitudes and strive to cultivate gratitude, contentment, and genuine happiness for others. May Allah protect us from the destructive effects of jealousy and grant us the ability to appreciate His blessings in our lives.