Hadith #10086

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

قَليلٌ يُنْجي خَيْرٌ مِنْ كَثير يُرْدي۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity, highlighting that a small amount that leads to salvation is far superior to an abundance that ultimately leads to destruction.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The word (qalilun) "قَليلٌ" means "little" or "few," indicating a small quantity or amount. The word (yunji) "يُنْجي" means "saves" or "rescues," signifying deliverance from harm or danger. On the other hand, the word (kathir) "كَثير" means "plenty" or "abundance," denoting a large quantity or amount. Lastly, the word (yurdi) "يُرْدي" means "destroys" or "ruins," implying the detrimental consequences of excessiveness.

To further elucidate the wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-An'am (6:152),

And do not approach the orphan's property except in a way that is best until he reaches maturity. And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you testify, be just, even if [it concerns] a near relative. And the covenant of Allah fulfill. This has He instructed you that you may remember.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling obligations with justice and fairness, without exceeding the limits. It teaches us that it is better to give a small but complete and just measure than to give an excessive amount that may harm others. This aligns with the message of Imam Ali's Hadith, as it highlights the significance of moderation and balance in our actions.

Another Quranic verse that supports the essence of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:29), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse cautions against both stinginess and extravagance. It advises us to avoid being miserly by withholding our wealth and resources, as well as being wasteful by recklessly spending beyond our means. Instead, we are encouraged to strike a balance and utilize our resources wisely, ensuring that we neither deprive ourselves nor indulge excessively.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand its profound implications in various aspects of our lives. It reminds us to prioritize quality over quantity, not only in material possessions but also in our actions, relationships, and intentions.

For instance, in our worship, it is better to perform a few acts of devotion with sincerity and excellence rather than engaging in numerous acts without true devotion. Similarly, in our interactions with others, it is more beneficial to have a few genuine and meaningful relationships rather than a multitude of superficial connections.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder to avoid excessive indulgence in worldly desires and material possessions. It encourages us to focus on what truly matters and to be content with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has blessed us with. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the destructive consequences of greed, extravagance, and attachment to worldly possessions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of prioritizing quality over quantity in all aspects of our lives. It urges us to seek moderation, balance, and excellence in our actions, relationships, and intentions. By doing so, we can attain salvation and protect ourselves from the destructive consequences of excessiveness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.