Hadith #10443

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, and his noble companions.

The hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Blessed is the one who has in his soul that which keeps him preoccupied [from others] and the people are at ease from him, and who acts in obedience to Allah, the Glorified.

This wise utterance highlights the virtues and qualities of a person who is self-sufficient, beneficial to others, and obedient to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the meanings of some important words in this hadith. The word (shughlun) "شُغْلٌ" refers to something that keeps a person preoccupied or engaged. It implies having a sense of purpose and focus in life, being occupied with meaningful pursuits that benefit oneself and others. The word (shaghilun) "شاغِلٌ" means that the person is so engaged in their own affairs that they do not burden others with their needs or problems. This person is self-sufficient and does not rely on others for their well-being.

The hadith emphasizes the importance of being self-sufficient and not burdening others. This concept is beautifully reflected in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9),

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the selflessness and generosity of the Ansar (the residents of Madinah) towards the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Makkah). The Ansar were so self-sufficient and content with what they had that they did not feel any want or need for what the Muhajirun possessed. They preferred the well-being of others over their own, exemplifying the qualities mentioned in the hadith.

Furthermore, the hadith emphasizes the importance of obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This obedience is not limited to ritual acts of worship but encompasses all aspects of life. It includes following the guidance of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in our interactions with others, in our responsibilities towards our families, and in our roles as members of society.

In Surah Al-Imran (3:31), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in order to gain the love and forgiveness of Allah. By acting in obedience to Allah, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the well-being and ease of others.

The consequences of embodying the qualities mentioned in the hadith are profound. A person who is self-sufficient and engaged in meaningful pursuits does not burden others with their needs or problems. They bring ease and comfort to those around them, fostering a harmonious and supportive community. Moreover, their obedience to Allah leads to spiritual growth, blessings, and the love of Allah.

Reflecting on this hadith, we are reminded of the importance of self-sufficiency, beneficial engagement, and obedience to Allah. We should strive to be individuals who are occupied with meaningful pursuits, contributing to the well-being of society and not burdening others. By following the guidance of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we can create an environment of ease and harmony, both for ourselves and for those around us.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the qualities mentioned in this hadith and bless us with self-sufficiency, beneficial engagement, and obedience to Him. Ameen.