Hadith #4631

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Begging is the collar of humiliation, it takes the honour away from the honourable and the stature away from the noble.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of begging and the impact it has on an individual's dignity and self-respect.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The term (tauwq) "طَوْقُ" refers to a collar or a chain that is used to restrain or control someone. In this context, it symbolizes the state of humiliation and degradation that begging brings upon an individual. The word (madhalla) "مَذَلَّةِ" means humiliation or disgrace, emphasizing the loss of honor and respect that accompanies begging.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that begging (taslubu al-'aziza 'izzahu) "تَسْلُبُ العَزيزَ عِزَّهُ", which means it takes away the honor of the honorable. Here, the term (aziz) "عَزيزَ" refers to someone who is honorable, esteemed, and dignified. Begging diminishes their sense of self-worth and diminishes the respect they command in society.

Additionally, the Hadith states that begging (wal-haseeba hasabahu) "والحَسيبَ حَسَبَهُ", which means it takes away the stature of the noble. The term (haseeb) "حَسيبَ" refers to someone who is noble, esteemed, and of high status. Begging reduces their social standing and diminishes their reputation among their peers.

To understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says 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 highlights the importance of self-sufficiency and independence, seeking sustenance through lawful means rather than relying on others.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77),

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse emphasizes the importance of striving for the hereafter while also fulfilling our responsibilities in this world. It encourages us to work hard and utilize the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to benefit ourselves and others.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand that begging not only strips away an individual's dignity and honor but also perpetuates a cycle of dependency and reliance on others. It hinders personal growth, self-reliance, and the development of one's potential. By relying on begging, individuals miss out on the opportunity to utilize their skills and abilities to contribute positively to society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of self-sufficiency and maintaining our dignity. He encourages us to seek lawful means of sustenance, to work hard, and to rely on our own abilities. By doing so, we not only preserve our honor and respect but also contribute to the betterment of our communities.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to avoid the path of begging, as it diminishes one's dignity and self-respect. Instead, we should strive for self-sufficiency, work diligently, and utilize our God-given abilities to earn a living and contribute positively to society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the strength to uphold our honor and dignity.