Hadith #1825

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, "نِعْمَ الإدامُ الجُوعُ۔" This can be translated into English as,

The best condiment is hunger.

In this impactful Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and virtue of hunger.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, it is important to analyze the key words used. The word (idam) "إدامُ" refers to condiment or seasoning, while (ju') "جُوعُ" means hunger. The word (ni'ma) "نِعْمَ" denotes something that is excellent, good, or virtuous. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that hunger, in its essence, is a beneficial and virtuous state.

In order to comprehend the wisdom behind this statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:35),

Every soul will taste death. And We test you with evil and with good as trial; and to Us you will be returned.

This verse reminds us that life is a test, and we are constantly faced with trials and tribulations. Hunger, as a physical sensation, is also a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a means through which we can purify our souls and strengthen our connection with our Creator.

Furthermore, hunger teaches us humility and gratitude. When we experience hunger, we become aware of our dependence on Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) sustenance and blessings. It reminds us of the countless blessings we often take for granted, such as having access to food and nourishment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Infitar (82:6-7),

O mankind, what has deceived you concerning your Lord, the Generous, Who created you, proportioned you, and balanced you?

Hunger serves as a reminder of our Creator's generosity and His perfect design of our bodies.

Moreover, hunger can also be a source of motivation and discipline. When we experience hunger, it compels us to seek sustenance and work for our livelihood. This drive and determination can be applied to other aspects of our lives as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mulk (67:2),

Who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.

Hunger can serve as a catalyst for us to strive for excellence in our actions and deeds, as we are constantly being tested by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, hunger can also foster empathy and compassion towards those who are less fortunate. When we experience hunger ourselves, we become more aware of the struggles and hardships faced by those who are deprived of food on a daily basis. This awareness can motivate us to take action and help alleviate the suffering of others. 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.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that hunger, when understood and approached with the right mindset, can have profound spiritual and moral benefits. It reminds us of our dependence on Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) sustenance, cultivates humility and gratitude, motivates us to strive for excellence, and fosters empathy towards those in need. By embracing hunger as a virtue, we can transform it into a means of spiritual growth and self-improvement. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the deeper meanings behind His tests and trials, and may He guide us on the path of righteousness.