Hadith #2404

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

صَنيعُ المالِ يَزُولُ بِزَوالِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

The good turn of wealth ceases with its cessation.

Let us delve into the meaning of this enlightening saying. The word (sanīʿu) "صَنيعُ" refers to a good deed or a virtuous act. It signifies any action that is beneficial, righteous, and praiseworthy. The word (māl) "مالِ" refers to wealth or material possessions. And the word (yazūl) "يَزُولُ" means to cease or disappear.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the transient nature of material wealth and the temporary benefits it brings. It reminds us that the goodness or virtue associated with wealth is also fleeting. When wealth ceases to exist or is no longer in our possession, the good deeds or positive impact it facilitated also come to an end.

This concept is beautifully echoed in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the impermanence of worldly possessions. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse emphasizes that worldly possessions, including wealth, are merely temporary distractions in the grand scheme of life. They may bring temporary pleasure and satisfaction, but they ultimately wither away and lose their value. The Quran repeatedly reminds us to focus on the eternal and everlasting rewards of the Hereafter, rather than being consumed by the pursuit of material wealth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions over material possessions. It encourages us to invest in deeds that have lasting value and benefit, rather than being solely preoccupied with accumulating wealth.

For instance, instead of hoarding wealth for personal gain, Muslims are encouraged to spend in the way of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and support charitable causes. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261),

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

By using their wealth to benefit others, Muslims can ensure that their good deeds continue to have a positive impact even after their wealth diminishes or ceases to exist. This not only benefits the individuals and communities who receive assistance but also brings spiritual fulfillment and blessings to the giver.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a reminder to Muslims to cultivate a mindset of detachment from worldly possessions. While it is natural to desire material comfort and security, it is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective and not become overly attached to wealth. The Quran warns against the dangers of excessive attachment to worldly possessions in Surah Al-Imran (3:14), where Allah says,

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

By recognizing the transient nature of wealth and its associated benefits, Muslims can strive for a more meaningful and fulfilling life. They can focus on cultivating virtues, performing acts of kindness, and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through their actions. This mindset shift allows Muslims to prioritize their eternal well-being and the well-being of others over temporary material gains.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

The good turn of wealth ceases with its cessation,

serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions over material possessions. It encourages us to invest in deeds that have lasting value and benefit, and to detach ourselves from excessive attachment to worldly wealth. By doing so, we can strive for a more meaningful and fulfilling life, both in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the next.