Hadith #8820

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

قَدْ عَزَّ مَن قَنِعَ۔

This can be translated as,

The one who is content has gained honor.

In this impactful saying , Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and virtue of contentment.

The word (izz) "عَزَّ" in the Hadith refers to honor, dignity, and respect. It signifies a state of being esteemed and revered. The word (qani'a) "قَنِعَ" means contentment or satisfaction with what one has. It implies being pleased and grateful with the blessings and provisions that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us.

To understand the depth and wisdom of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:23),

So that you may not grieve over what has escaped you, nor be exultant at what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of contentment and warns against being attached to worldly possessions or feeling superior due to material wealth. True honor lies in being content with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided us, whether it is abundant or limited. It is a state of inner peace and tranquility that comes from recognizing and appreciating the blessings in our lives.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Tawbah (9:59), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And among them are those who criticize you concerning the [distribution of] charities. If they are given from them, they approve; but if they are not given from them, at once they become angry.

This verse highlights the negative attitude of those who are not content and always seek more. They criticize and become resentful when they do not receive what they desire. On the other hand, a content person is grateful for whatever they receive and does not harbor envy or ill feelings towards others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that true honor and dignity are not measured by material possessions or worldly achievements. Rather, they are attained through contentment and gratitude. When we are content with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has given us, we free ourselves from the constant pursuit of more and find peace within ourselves.

Contentment brings numerous benefits to our lives. It allows us to focus on our spiritual growth and the development of our character. It helps us maintain a positive outlook and prevents us from falling into the trap of greed and materialism. Contentment also fosters a sense of inner peace and tranquility, enabling us to navigate the challenges of life with resilience and patience.

Moreover, contentment strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we are grateful for His blessings and accept His decree with contentment, we demonstrate our trust in His wisdom and mercy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises in Surah An-Nahl (16:46),

And if you are grateful, He is pleased with you and does not increase you except for good.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true honor and dignity are attained through contentment. By being grateful for the blessings we have and accepting Allah's decree with contentment, we free ourselves from the constant pursuit of more and find inner peace. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to embrace contentment and bless us with true honor in this world and the Hereafter.