Hadith #2217

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Al-Hasadu yunḍī (yuḍnī) al-jasad.

This Hadith highlights the destructive nature of jealousy, as it emaciates or exhausts the body. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "hasad" in Arabic refers to jealousy or envy. It is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what others possess, whether it be material possessions, talents, or blessings. This feeling of discontentment can lead to harmful actions and negative consequences. The word "yunḍī" or "yuḍnī" means to emaciate or exhaust, indicating the detrimental impact of jealousy on both the physical and spiritual well-being of an individual.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that warn against the destructive nature of jealousy and envy. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:109), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Many of the People of the Scripture wish they could turn you back to disbelief after you have believed, out of envy from themselves [even] after the truth has become clear to them.

This verse highlights how jealousy can lead individuals to oppose the truth and attempt to hinder the progress of others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Falaq (113:5), we find the supplication,

From the evil of an envier when he envies.

This verse acknowledges the harm that can be inflicted by an envious person and seeks protection from their evil intentions. It emphasizes the need to guard ourselves against the negative emotions of jealousy and envy.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the destructive effects of jealousy. When one harbors jealousy towards others, it not only affects their mental and emotional well-being but also has physical consequences. Jealousy consumes a person's energy, drains their vitality, and weakens their overall health.

Moreover, jealousy can lead to harmful actions and behaviors. It can drive individuals to engage in backbiting, slander, and even sabotage the success of others. This not only damages relationships but also creates a toxic environment within society. Jealousy hinders personal growth and prevents individuals from appreciating their own blessings and accomplishments.

To overcome jealousy, Muslims are encouraged to cultivate gratitude and contentment. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Nahl (16:53),

And whatever blessings and favors you have, it is from Allah.

Recognizing that all blessings come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) helps us appreciate the unique gifts and talents bestowed upon us. Instead of being envious of others, we should focus on developing our own skills and utilizing them for the betterment of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be wary of the destructive nature of jealousy. It exhausts and emaciates the body, leading to physical and spiritual decline. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that warn against jealousy and envy, we can strive to overcome these negative emotions and cultivate gratitude and contentment in our hearts. May Allah protect us from the harmful effects of jealousy and bless us with a pure and tranquil heart.