Hadith #10754

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly possessions for those who have true insight into the nature of people. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their implications.

The word (yanbaghi) "يَنْبَغِي" in the Hadith signifies an obligation or a duty. It implies that it is necessary and incumbent upon individuals who possess knowledge and understanding to adopt a certain behavior. In this case, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the duty of those who truly comprehend the reality of people.

The word (arafa) "عَرَفَ" refers to recognizing or knowing someone or something. In this context, it refers to having a deep understanding of the true nature and characteristics of people. It goes beyond mere superficial knowledge and delves into perceiving the essence of individuals.

The term (annas) "النّاسَ" refers to people in general. It encompasses all individuals, regardless of their social status, wealth, or position. This includes both the righteous and the wicked, the wealthy and the poor, the powerful and the weak.

The word (yazhada) "يَزْهَدَ" means to be uninterested or detached from something. It implies not being captivated or influenced by the material possessions that people possess. It signifies a state of contentment and detachment from the allure of worldly possessions.

To further understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20):

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This ayah highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and the delusion they create. It reminds us that the pursuit of material wealth and possessions is merely a temporary amusement, devoid of any lasting value. Therefore, those who possess true insight into the nature of people understand the futility of attaching themselves to worldly possessions.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

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 strength from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than relying on worldly possessions. It encourages us to detach ourselves from materialism and instead seek spiritual nourishment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautiful Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth over the accumulation of wealth and possessions. It urges us to detach ourselves from the materialistic mindset that often consumes society and focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

By being uninterested in the possessions of others, we free ourselves from envy, greed, and the constant desire for more. This detachment allows us to develop a content and grateful heart, appreciating the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also enables us to focus on our own personal growth and spiritual development, rather than being distracted by the temporary allure of worldly possessions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize spiritual growth and detachment from worldly possessions. It highlights the duty of those who possess true insight into the nature of people to be uninterested in the material wealth and possessions of others. By doing so, we can attain a state of contentment, gratitude, and spiritual fulfillment, ultimately leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives.