Hadith #5970

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

بِئْسَ القُوتُ أكْلُ مالِ الأيْتامِ۔

This can be translated into English as,

How bad a sustenance consuming the wealth of orphans is!

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the grave sin and moral corruption of those who unjustly consume the wealth of orphans.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words used. The word (sustenance) "قُوتُ" refers to the means of sustenance or livelihood. It encompasses all the resources and provisions necessary for survival and well-being. The term (consuming) "أكْلُ" denotes the act of devouring or consuming something. And finally, (the wealth of orphans) "مالِ الأيْتامِ" refers to the property, assets, and belongings that rightfully belong to orphaned children.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of orphans and warns against any form of exploitation or mistreatment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa (4:2):

And give to the orphans their properties and do not substitute the defective [of your own] for the good [of theirs]. And do not consume their properties into your own. Indeed, that is ever a great sin.

This verse clearly prohibits the consumption or appropriation of the wealth of orphans. It highlights the gravity of this act, labeling it as a "great sin." By consuming the wealth of orphans, individuals not only commit a grave injustice but also violate the rights of the most vulnerable members of society.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of justice and fair treatment towards orphans. In Surah An-Nisa (4:127), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And they request from you, [O Muhammad], a [legal] ruling concerning women. Say, 'Allah gives you a ruling about them and [about] what has been recited to you in the Book concerning the orphan girls to whom you do not give what is decreed for them - and [yet] you desire to marry them - and concerning the oppressed among children and that you maintain for orphans [their rights] in justice.' And whatever you do of good - indeed, Allah is ever Knowing of it.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining justice and fulfilling the rights of orphans. It admonishes those who neglect their responsibilities towards orphaned children and emphasizes the need for fair treatment and protection of their rights.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of consuming the wealth of orphans. It highlights the moral degradation and spiritual corruption that accompanies such an act. By consuming the wealth of orphans, individuals not only commit a grave injustice but also invite the wrath and displeasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of consuming the wealth of orphans are far-reaching. It not only deprives orphaned children of their rightful inheritance but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and injustice. By usurping their wealth, individuals deny orphans the opportunity to receive proper education, healthcare, and a secure future. This act of exploitation not only harms the orphans themselves but also undermines the fabric of society, as it erodes trust, compassion, and social cohesion.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to uphold justice and protect the rights of the vulnerable, particularly orphaned children. It calls upon us to be conscious of our responsibilities towards orphans and to ensure that their wealth is preserved and utilized for their well-being and development.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the grave sin and moral corruption associated with consuming the wealth of orphans. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice, compassion, and the protection of the rights of the vulnerable. As Muslims, it is our duty to uphold these principles and strive for a just and equitable society, where the rights of orphans and all marginalized individuals are safeguarded. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in fulfilling our responsibilities and grant us the wisdom to act with justice and compassion towards the orphans and all those in need.