Hadith #1005

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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,

خَيْرُ الأُمُورِ ما عَرى عَنِ الطَّمَعِ

which translates to

The best matters are those which are free from cupidity.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of avoiding greed and selfish desires in all aspects of our lives.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. The word (khayr) "خَيْرُ" means "good" or "best." It signifies actions or matters that are virtuous, beneficial, and pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (umoor) "أُمُورِ" refers to matters or affairs, indicating that this Hadith encompasses various aspects of our lives. Finally, the word (tamah) "طَّمَعِ" translates to "cupidity" or "greed," which refers to an intense desire for wealth, power, or possessions.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of avoiding greed and materialistic pursuits. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah says,

And those who, before them, had homes (in Medina) and had adopted the Faith, love those who emigrate to them, and have no jealousy in their breasts for that which they have been given (from the booty of Bani An-Nadir), and give them (emigrants) preference over themselves, even though they were in need of that.

This verse highlights the selflessness and generosity of the Ansar (the residents of Medina) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Mecca) without any envy or greed.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah warns against the destructive nature of greed, saying,

And We made the son of Mary and his mother a sign and sheltered them within a high ground having level [areas] and flowing water.

This verse refers to the story of Jesus (Isa) and his mother Maryam, who were provided with sustenance and protection by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) without any greed or excessive desires.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us that the best matters in life are those that are free from the shackles of greed. When we prioritize selflessness, generosity, and contentment over materialistic pursuits, we attain a higher level of spiritual and moral excellence. By detaching ourselves from the insatiable desire for wealth and power, we can focus on fulfilling the needs of others, fostering unity within our communities, and striving for the betterment of society as a whole.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, reminds us of the detrimental consequences of cupidity. Greed can lead to corruption, injustice, and the exploitation of others. It blinds us from recognizing the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and prevents us from appreciating the simple joys of life. Moreover, it hinders our spiritual growth and distances us from attaining true happiness and contentment.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are encouraged to evaluate their intentions and actions in all aspects of life. Whether it is in matters of wealth, power, relationships, or personal achievements, we should strive to cultivate a mindset that is free from greed and selfish desires. Instead, we should seek to emulate the selflessness and generosity of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his Ahl al-Bayt, and the noble companions, who prioritized the welfare of others above their own.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to prioritize selflessness, generosity, and contentment over greed and materialistic pursuits. By embodying these virtues, we can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society, ultimately earning the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and attaining true success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the destructive influence of cupidity.