Hadith #5122

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) states,

The foundation of evil is avarice.

Let us delve into the meaning of this profound statement and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word "milak" refers to the foundation or basis, while "ash-sharr" means evil. And "at-tama'" signifies avarice or greed. This Hadith highlights the fundamental cause of evil in the world, which is the insatiable desire for wealth and material possessions.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the dangers and consequences of greed. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the destructive nature of greed when He says, (Quran 2:188)

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse highlights the harm caused by greed, as it leads people to engage in unjust practices such as bribery and exploitation of others' wealth. Greed blinds individuals to the rights of others and encourages them to pursue their own interests at the expense of others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the consequences of greed when He says, (Quran 4:29)

O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent. And do not kill yourselves [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is to you ever Merciful.

This verse highlights the destructive nature of greed, as it can lead to the oppression and exploitation of others. It reminds us to engage in lawful and ethical business practices, avoiding any form of injustice or harm to others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their own actions and intentions. Avarice and greed can lead individuals to engage in unethical behavior, causing harm to themselves and others. It is important for Muslims to be mindful of their desires and to prioritize the well-being and rights of others over their own materialistic pursuits.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, and his statement regarding the foundation of evil being avarice reflects his understanding of the human psyche. Greed can lead to a multitude of sins, such as dishonesty, theft, and oppression, which ultimately disrupt the harmony and justice in society.

Therefore, Muslims should strive to cultivate contentment and gratitude in their hearts, recognizing that true wealth lies in the richness of faith and good deeds. By purifying our intentions and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can overcome the destructive nature of greed and contribute to a more just and compassionate society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the dangers of avarice and greed. By understanding the consequences of these traits and striving to purify our hearts and intentions, we can work towards a society that is free from the foundation of evil. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive nature of greed and guide us towards righteousness.