Hadith #5195

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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, "كَفَى بِالشَّرَهِ هُلْكًا" which translates to

Voraciousness is enough of a destruction.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of excessive greed and insatiable desire.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. The word (sharah) "شَّرَهِ" refers to voraciousness or excessive desire for worldly possessions. It signifies an insatiable hunger for material wealth, power, and indulgence. This insatiable desire can lead to destructive consequences, both in this world and the hereafter.

The word (hulka) "هُلْكًا" means destruction or ruin. It signifies the ultimate consequence of unrestrained voraciousness, which can lead to the downfall and destruction of an individual. This destruction can manifest in various ways, such as moral decay, loss of spirituality, broken relationships, and even societal unrest.

The Quran provides us with several verses that shed light on the destructive nature of voraciousness and excessive desire. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the pursuit of worldly gains at the expense of one's spiritual well-being:

(Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

This verse emphasizes the transient nature of worldly possessions and urges Muslims to prioritize the provision and blessings bestowed upon them by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It serves as a reminder that excessive desire for material wealth can lead to spiritual deprivation and ultimately, destruction.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mutaffifin, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) condemns those who hoard wealth and indulge in greed:

(Quran 83:1-6)

Woe to those who give less [than due], who, when they take a measure from people, take in full. But if they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss. Do they not think that they will be resurrected for a tremendous Day - the Day when mankind will stand before the Lord of the worlds?

This verse highlights the consequences of greed and injustice in the distribution of wealth. It warns that those who exploit others for personal gain will face accountability on the Day of Judgment. The pursuit of excessive wealth without regard for ethical principles can lead to destruction in this life and the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their desires and to seek moderation in their pursuit of worldly possessions. It cautions against the dangers of unrestrained greed and the potential consequences it can bring.

Excessive desire for wealth and material possessions can lead to a neglect of one's spiritual growth and moral values. It can create a sense of dissatisfaction and discontentment, as one constantly seeks more and more without finding true fulfillment. This insatiable hunger for worldly gains can also lead to unethical behavior, such as exploitation, dishonesty, and injustice.

Moreover, the destructive consequences of voraciousness extend beyond the individual. It can have a detrimental impact on society as a whole, leading to economic disparities, social unrest, and the erosion of moral values. When individuals prioritize their own desires over the well-being of others, it creates an environment of inequality and injustice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking Hadith serves as a call to self-reflection and self-restraint. It urges Muslims to prioritize spiritual growth, contentment, and the pursuit of righteousness over the accumulation of material wealth. By recognizing the destructive nature of excessive desire, Muslims can strive for a balanced and fulfilling life, guided by the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the destructive consequences of voraciousness and excessive desire. It calls upon us to seek moderation, contentment, and spiritual growth, while prioritizing the well-being of others. By heeding this wisdom, Muslims can strive for a balanced and fulfilling life, both in this world and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the path of righteousness and protect us from the destructive consequences of unrestrained desires.