Hadith #8865

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "القنية أحزان" which translates to

Acquisitions are [a cause of] sorrows.

In this profound statement, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inherent nature of worldly possessions and the potential negative consequences they can bring.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us first explore the key words used. The word (al-qunya) "القنية" refers to the act of acquiring or possessing something. It encompasses material possessions, wealth, and worldly gains. The word (ahzan) "أحزان" means sorrows or grief. It signifies the emotional and psychological burdens that can arise as a result of our attachment to worldly possessions.

The Quran provides us with several verses that shed light on the concept mentioned in this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the potential negative impact they can have on our hearts and souls. In Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, Allah says:

(Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the illusion they create. It warns us against becoming too attached to material wealth and highlights the importance of focusing on the eternal life in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Takathur, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the distractions and preoccupations that come with the pursuit of worldly gains. He says:

(Quran 102:1-8)

Competition in [worldly] increase diverts you. Until you visit the graveyards. No! You are going to know. Then no! You are going to know. No! If you only knew with knowledge of certainty... You will surely see the Hellfire. Then you will surely see it with the eye of certainty. Then you will surely be asked that Day about pleasure.

These verses serve as a reminder that our focus should not solely be on acquiring worldly possessions, as they can distract us from our ultimate purpose in life and lead to regret and sorrow in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Acquisitions are [a cause of] sorrows,

encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our attachment to material possessions. When we become too engrossed in accumulating wealth and possessions, we often neglect our spiritual development and lose sight of our true purpose in life.

The pursuit of worldly gains can lead to various negative consequences. It can create a sense of greed, envy, and competition among individuals, causing divisions and conflicts within society. Moreover, the constant desire for more can lead to dissatisfaction and a perpetual cycle of seeking temporary happiness in material possessions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the potential sorrows that arise from our attachment to worldly acquisitions. By recognizing the transient nature of material possessions and redirecting our focus towards spiritual growth and the Hereafter, we can find true contentment and inner peace.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on the consequences of our attachment to worldly possessions. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual development and the pursuit of eternal happiness in the Hereafter. By understanding the temporary nature of material wealth and its potential negative impact on our hearts and souls, we can strive for a balanced approach to acquiring and utilizing worldly possessions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the path of righteousness and grant us contentment in both this world and the Hereafter.