Hadith #8822

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "كُلُّ قانِع عَفيفٌ۔" This can be translated into English as,

Every contented one is continent.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (qāniʿ) "قانِع" in Arabic refers to someone who is content, satisfied, and at peace with what they have. It signifies a state of inner tranquility and acceptance of Allah's decree. The word (ʿafīfun) "عَفيفٌ" means someone who exercises self-restraint and possesses self-control. It denotes a person who abstains from indulging in unlawful desires and maintains purity in their thoughts, actions, and character.

The Quran beautifully emphasizes the virtue of contentment in several verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152),

So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.

This verse encourages us to be grateful and content with what Allah has bestowed upon us. It reminds us that true contentment lies in recognizing and appreciating the blessings of Allah.

Another verse that highlights the importance of contentment is found in Surah At-Tawbah (9:59), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And among them are those who criticize you concerning the [distribution of] charities. If they are given from them, they approve; but if they are not given from them, at once they become angry.

This verse warns against the negative attitude of those who are not content and always seek more. It teaches us the value of being satisfied with what we have and not becoming envious or resentful towards others.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The Hadith states that every contented person is continent. This means that when one is truly content with what they have, they naturally possess the ability to exercise self-restraint and control over their desires. Contentment acts as a shield against indulgence in unlawful and excessive desires, leading to a virtuous and pure lifestyle.

For example, a person who is content with their financial situation will not resort to dishonest means to accumulate wealth. They will be satisfied with their provisions and will not be driven by greed or envy. Similarly, a person who is content with their physical appearance will not fall into the trap of seeking validation through excessive cosmetic procedures or indulging in harmful practices to conform to societal standards. Their contentment will protect them from the negative consequences of such actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate contentment in all aspects of their lives. It teaches us that true happiness and fulfillment lie in being grateful for what Allah has bestowed upon us and finding peace within ourselves. By being content, we can resist the temptations of this world and maintain purity in our thoughts, actions, and character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Every contented one is continent

highlights the profound connection between contentment and self-restraint. It reminds us to strive for inner peace and satisfaction, as it leads to a virtuous and pure lifestyle. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to embrace contentment and protect us from the pitfalls of excessive desires.