Hadith #8840

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the virtue of contentment and its ability to protect one from the humiliation of constantly seeking assistance from others. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (qani'a) "قَنِعَ", which translates to "contented" in English. Contentment refers to a state of satisfaction and fulfillment with what one possesses, without longing for more or constantly seeking material gain. It is a quality that allows individuals to find peace and tranquility within themselves, regardless of their external circumstances.

The Hadith emphasizes that one who possesses contentment is spared from the (mazallat al-talab) "مَذَلَّةَ الطَّلَبِ", which can be translated as the "humility of asking" or the "humiliation of begging." This phrase highlights the negative consequences of constantly relying on others for one's needs and desires. It implies that those who are content with what they have are not burdened by the need to ask for assistance, as they are self-sufficient and independent.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the concept of contentment and its positive impact on individuals. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse reminds Muslims to prioritize piety and God-consciousness over material possessions. It encourages us to be content with the provisions that Allah has bestowed upon us, as true sustenance lies in our connection with Him.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.

This verse reminds us to strike a balance between seeking the rewards of the Hereafter and fulfilling our worldly responsibilities. It encourages contentment by reminding us to be grateful for the blessings we have been given, while also striving for the eternal abode.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate contentment in their lives. By being content with what we have, we can avoid the humiliation of constantly seeking assistance from others. Contentment allows us to appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and find peace within ourselves, regardless of our material possessions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, and this Hadith reflects his deep understanding of human nature and the importance of contentment. He encourages Muslims to strive for self-sufficiency and independence, while also reminding us to be grateful for the blessings we have been given.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the virtue of contentment and its ability to protect us from the humiliation of constantly seeking assistance from others. It reminds us to be grateful for the blessings we have been given and to prioritize our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over material possessions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to cultivate contentment in our lives and protect us from the humiliation of constantly seeking assistance from others.