Hadith #2210

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the destructive nature of jealousy, stating

Be cautious of jealousy, for it disparages the self.

The word used for jealousy in this Hadith is (الحسد) "al-hasad", which refers to the feeling of resentment or envy towards someone else's blessings, possessions, or achievements.

The word (يُزْرِي) "yuzri" in the Hadith means to disparage or belittle the self. It highlights the detrimental impact that jealousy has on an individual's self-esteem, contentment, and overall well-being. Jealousy not only harms the person towards whom it is directed but also affects the one who harbors it, leading to negative emotions and a sense of dissatisfaction.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of avoiding jealousy and its adverse effects. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Nisa (4:54) that jealousy can lead to disbelief and ingratitude:

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty? But We had already given the family of Abraham the Scripture and wisdom and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

This verse reminds us that jealousy stems from a lack of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon others by Allah. Instead of being envious, Muslims should appreciate and celebrate the blessings that Allah has granted to others.

Furthermore, Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12) advises Muslims to avoid suspicion and negative assumptions, which are often fueled by jealousy:

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse highlights the destructive consequences of jealousy, such as spreading rumors, backbiting, and causing harm to others. Jealousy can lead to a breakdown of trust and unity within the Muslim community, undermining the principles of brotherhood and compassion.

The exegesis of this Hadith reminds us of the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement. Jealousy not only harms others but also diminishes our own self-worth and contentment. When we focus on what others have and become consumed by envy, we neglect our own blessings and fail to appreciate the unique gifts and talents that Allah has bestowed upon us.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the dangers of jealousy to guide us towards a path of self-improvement and spiritual growth. By recognizing and addressing our own feelings of envy, we can strive to cultivate a mindset of gratitude, contentment, and genuine happiness for the success and blessings of others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious of jealousy and its detrimental effects on both ourselves and our relationships with others. By seeking refuge in Allah from jealousy and striving to develop a mindset of gratitude and contentment, we can foster a harmonious and supportive community that celebrates the success and blessings of all its members. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive nature of jealousy and guide us towards a path of righteousness and self-improvement.