Hadith #2073

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, "الحِرْصُ عَلامَةُ الفَقْرِ" which translates to

Greed is a sign of penury.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and intentions.

The word (hiras) "حِرْصُ" refers to an intense desire or greed for something. It signifies an excessive eagerness to possess or acquire worldly goods, status, or power. This inclination towards greed is a characteristic that can lead one astray from the path of righteousness and contentment. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that this trait is a sign of (al-faqr) "الفَقْرِ", which means poverty or destitution.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of contentment and warns against the dangers of greed. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 4:32)

And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of his bounty. Indeed Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing

This verse highlights the importance of being satisfied with the provisions that Allah has bestowed upon us. It reminds us that our sustenance and blessings are predetermined by Allah, and we should not be envious or covetous of what others possess. Greed, on the other hand, stems from a lack of gratitude and contentment with what Allah has already granted us.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of greed is found in Surah Al-Hashr, where Allah says, (Quran 59:7)

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty

This verse highlights the importance of distributing wealth and resources in a just and equitable manner. It warns against the accumulation of wealth in the hands of a few, as it leads to social and economic disparities. Greed, in this context, can lead to hoarding and selfishness, depriving others of their rights and causing societal imbalance.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that greed is a sign of penury, meaning that those who are consumed by their desires and constantly seek more are actually impoverished in their hearts and souls. They are unable to find true satisfaction and contentment, as their insatiable greed blinds them to the blessings and bounties bestowed upon them by Allah.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to cultivate contentment and gratitude in our lives. We should be mindful of our desires and ensure that they are within the boundaries set by Allah. By seeking moderation and avoiding excessive greed, we can find true fulfillment and inner peace. Let us remember that true wealth lies in the richness of our faith, character, and relationships, rather than the accumulation of material possessions. May Allah guide us to the path of contentment and protect us from the pitfalls of greed.