Hadith #3942

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

Little of this world is better than plenty of it, and that of it which suffices for subsistence in it is better than that which destroys.

This thought-provoking Hadith highlights the importance of moderation and contentment in our worldly pursuits.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (yasir) "يَسِيرُ" means "little" or "few," indicating that having a modest amount of worldly possessions is preferable. It emphasizes the idea that excessive wealth and material possessions can lead to distractions, greed, and a neglect of spiritual growth.

On the other hand, the word (kathir) "كَثِيرُ" means "plenty" or "abundance." This term reminds us that having an excessive amount of worldly possessions does not necessarily bring true happiness or fulfillment. It can lead to arrogance, attachment to material things, and a neglect of our spiritual well-being.

The phrase (wabulghatuhā ajdaru min halakatihā)

وَبُلْغَتُهَا أجْدَرُ مِنْ هَلَكَتِهَا

translates to

that of it which suffices for subsistence in it is better than that which destroys.

This part of the Hadith emphasizes the importance of having enough to meet our basic needs without indulging in excess. It teaches us that contentment and sufficiency are better than pursuing wealth that leads to destruction and ruin.

To further understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 reminds us that while we should strive for the rewards of the Hereafter, we should not neglect our responsibilities in this world. We are encouraged to seek a balance between our worldly affairs and our spiritual growth. It is important to remember that the pursuit of wealth should not lead us to engage in corrupt practices or harm others.

Another verse that aligns with the teachings of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 teaches us to seek sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to rely on Him for our provisions. It reminds us that true success lies in having a firm and balanced approach to our worldly affairs, seeking Allah's guidance and blessings in all that we do.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we can draw several important lessons. Firstly, we should strive for moderation and contentment in our pursuit of worldly possessions. Excessive wealth and materialism can distract us from our spiritual growth and lead to negative consequences.

Secondly, we should seek a balance between our worldly affairs and our spiritual well-being. We should not neglect our responsibilities in this world, but at the same time, we should not become consumed by our material desires.

Lastly, we should rely on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for our sustenance and provisions. Trusting in His wisdom and seeking His blessings will lead us to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of this Hadith and the Quran in our lives. May He guide us to a balanced and content existence in this world and the Hereafter.