Hadith #5521

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) highlights four qualities that bring disgrace to a person: miserliness, dishonesty, voraciousness, and bad manners. Let us delve into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, "al-bukhl" refers to miserliness or stinginess. It is the act of withholding and refraining from spending or giving in a manner that is appropriate and beneficial. The Quran emphasizes the importance of generosity and spending in the way of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), as stated in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261):

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

Secondly, "al-kidhb" refers to dishonesty or lying. It is the act of intentionally deceiving others by distorting the truth. The Quran strictly prohibits lying and emphasizes the importance of truthfulness. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:42), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it].

Thirdly, "ash-sharah" refers to voraciousness or gluttony. It is the act of consuming excessively and indulging in food or drink beyond what is necessary. The Quran advises moderation in all aspects of life, including eating and drinking. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:31), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against excessiveness:

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

Lastly, "su' al-khulq" refers to bad manners or ill conduct. It encompasses all forms of behavior that are contrary to the teachings of Islam, such as arrogance, disrespect, and rudeness. The Quran emphasizes the importance of good character and manners. In Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights these four qualities as disgraceful because they go against the teachings of Islam and the principles of righteousness. Miserliness deprives others of their rights and hinders the growth of society. Dishonesty undermines trust and integrity, leading to chaos and injustice. Voraciousness leads to wastefulness and neglect of the needs of others. Bad manners create a toxic environment and hinder harmonious relationships.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is guiding us towards a path of righteousness and moral excellence. By avoiding these disgraceful qualities, we can strive to be better Muslims and contribute positively to our communities. Let us remember the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions, and strive to embody the values of generosity, truthfulness, moderation, and good character. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the straight path and protect us from disgraceful qualities.