Hadith #10073

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

خَيْرُ أمْوالِكَ ما وَقى عِرْضَكَ۔

This can be translated as,

The best of your wealth is that which safeguards your dignity.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (amwalik) "أموالك" refers to one's wealth or possessions. It encompasses all material possessions, such as money, property, and assets. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses everything that a person owns.

The term (ma waqya) "ما وَقى" means that which safeguards or protects. It implies the act of preserving and safeguarding something from harm or loss. In this context, it refers to the wealth that serves to protect one's dignity and honor.

The Hadith emphasizes the importance of wealth that not only provides material comfort but also safeguards one's dignity. It highlights the significance of using wealth in a manner that upholds one's honor and integrity. It encourages Muslims to prioritize the preservation of their dignity over the accumulation of wealth.

This concept is beautifully echoed in the Quran. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

This verse reminds us that the provision and blessings from Allah are far superior to the temporary pleasures of this world. It encourages Muslims to focus on the eternal rewards in the hereafter rather than being consumed by the pursuit of worldly wealth.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 49:11)

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting and preserving the dignity of others. It teaches us to refrain from mocking or belittling others, as it is a violation of their honor. It reminds us that insulting or demeaning others is not befitting of a believer and goes against the principles of Islam.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that true wealth lies not only in material possessions but also in the preservation of our dignity and honor. It is not the quantity of wealth that matters, but rather the manner in which it is acquired and utilized.

A person who uses their wealth to uplift others, support charitable causes, and maintain their integrity is truly rich in the eyes of Allah. Such individuals prioritize their character and moral values over the accumulation of worldly possessions. They understand that their dignity and honor are priceless and should never be compromised for temporary gains.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the preservation of their dignity over the accumulation of wealth. It encourages us to use our wealth in a manner that upholds our honor and integrity. By doing so, we not only attain material comfort but also earn the pleasure of Allah and the respect of others. May Allah guide us to use our wealth wisely and protect our dignity.