Hadith #8219

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Opulence through other than Allah is the greatest indigence and wretchedness.

This beautiful saying highlights the importance of relying solely on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for sustenance and success, rather than seeking material wealth through means that are not in accordance with His guidance.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ghina) "غِنَى" refers to opulence or wealth, while (bi ghayri Allah) "بِغَيْرِ اللّهِ" means through other than Allah. The term (a'zamu) "أَعْظَمُ" signifies the greatest or most severe, and (al-faqr wa al-shaqa) "الفَقْرِ وَالشَّقاءِ" translates to indigence and wretchedness.

To comprehend the impactful message of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, which provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of relying on Allah alone for sustenance and success. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:60),

And how many a creature carries not its [own] provision. Allah provides for it and for you. And He is the Hearing, the Knowing.

This verse reminds us that it is Allah who provides for all creatures, including us, and that we should place our trust in Him rather than seeking wealth through means that may be contrary to His guidance.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 seeking sustenance directly from Allah, acknowledging that true success and prosperity come from Him alone.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us that relying on material wealth acquired through means that are not in accordance with Allah's guidance leads to a state of indigence and wretchedness. This is because such wealth is devoid of blessings and barakah, and it does not bring true contentment and happiness. It may provide temporary satisfaction, but it ultimately leaves one feeling empty and spiritually impoverished.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, warns us against the pursuit of wealth through illegitimate means or at the expense of others. He reminds us that true opulence lies in seeking Allah's pleasure and relying on Him for sustenance. When we prioritize our relationship with Allah and follow His guidance, we are blessed with contentment, peace, and genuine prosperity.

This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for all Muslims, regardless of their sect, to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly possessions. It encourages us to seek lawful means of sustenance and to be mindful of the ethical implications of our actions. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of materialism and find true fulfillment in our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that relying on wealth acquired through means other than Allah leads to indigence and wretchedness. It urges us to prioritize our relationship with Allah and seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives. By doing so, we can attain true prosperity and contentment, both in this world and the hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the next.