Hadith #4561

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and upon his companions.

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

مِنَ الفَسادِ إضائَةُ الزَّادِ۔

which translates to

Wasting of provision is from corruption.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the connection between wastefulness and corruption.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith. The word (fasad) "فَسادِ" refers to corruption, decay, or destruction. It encompasses any action or behavior that deviates from the path of righteousness and leads to harm or destruction. The word (ida'at) "إضائَةُ" means wasting or squandering, indicating the act of using something excessively or without purpose. Finally, (az-zad) "الزَّادِ" refers to provisions or sustenance that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of moderation, gratitude, and avoiding wastefulness in the Quran.

In Surah Al-A'raf (7:31), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 this world, we should not indulge in excess or waste. Wastefulness is seen as a negative trait, disapproved by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against extravagance, saying,

And do not be excessive in your spending. Indeed, He does not like those who commit excess.

This verse further emphasizes the importance of moderation and avoiding wastefulness in our actions and spending.

The consequences of wasting provisions are not limited to the individual level but extend to society as a whole. Wastefulness leads to a depletion of resources, inequality, and an imbalance in distribution. It can result in economic disparities, poverty, and social unrest. By highlighting the connection between wasting provisions and corruption, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the broader consequences of our actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words are a reflection of his deep understanding of the teachings of Islam. Through this Hadith, he urges Muslims to be mindful of their consumption and to avoid wastefulness. By doing so, we can contribute to a more balanced and just society, where provisions are utilized wisely and shared equitably.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Wasting of provision is from corruption

serves as a reminder for Muslims to be conscious of their actions and to avoid wastefulness. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize moderation, gratitude, and the avoidance of excess. By practicing moderation and avoiding wastefulness, we can contribute to a more sustainable and just society, in line with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and protect us from corruption.