Hadith #956

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

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

كَثرَةُ الأكلِ تُذَفِّرُ (تُدْفِرُ)

which translates to

Overeating causes bad [body] odour.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of excessive eating on one's physical well-being.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "كَثرَةُ الأكلِ" refers to the act of eating excessively or indulging in gluttony. The word (تُدْفِرُ) "تُذَفِّرُ" signifies the occurrence of bad or unpleasant odour. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is drawing our attention to the direct correlation between overeating and the production of foul body odour.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes moderation in all aspects of life, including eating. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31),

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.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided us with sustenance and blessings, but we should not go beyond the limits of moderation. Overeating not only leads to physical discomfort but also has detrimental effects on our health. It can lead to obesity, heart disease, and other ailments. Moreover, excessive consumption goes against the principles of self-control and discipline that Islam encourages.

Another verse that sheds light on the importance of moderation in eating is found in Surah Al-A'raf (7:32), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, 'Who has forbidden the adornment of Allah which He has produced for His servants and the good [lawful] things of provision?' Say, 'They are for those who believe during the worldly life [but] exclusively for them on the Day of Resurrection.' Thus, do We detail the verses for a people who know.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided us with lawful and permissible provisions as a means of sustenance. However, it is crucial to consume these blessings in moderation, recognizing that they are a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and should be used wisely.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their eating habits and to avoid excessive indulgence. By restraining ourselves from overeating, we not only maintain good physical health but also cultivate self-discipline and control over our desires.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions. Just as overeating leads to unpleasant body odour, excessive indulgence in worldly desires can lead to spiritual decay and a foul character. It serves as a metaphorical reminder that our actions have consequences, both in this world and the hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative effects of overeating on our physical well-being. It aligns with the Quranic teachings of moderation and self-control in all aspects of life. By practicing moderation in our eating habits, we not only maintain good health but also develop discipline and control over our desires. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).