Hadith #3749

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Neediness has been decreed for those from among the people of this world who seek to increase their wealth while those who get along without it have been assisted with comfort.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of pursuing worldly wealth excessively and the blessings bestowed upon those who are content with what they have.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The word (hukima) "حُكِمَ" means "decreed" or "ordained." It signifies that the state of neediness and comfort has been divinely ordained by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) as a consequence of one's actions and intentions. The word (mukthiri) "مُكْثِرِي" refers to those who constantly strive to accumulate wealth and possessions in this world. On the other hand, (u'ina) "أُعِيْنَ" refers to those who are assisted or supported, and (ghaniya) "غَنِيَ" refers to those who are self-sufficient or content with what they have.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse emphasizes that trials and tribulations, including financial difficulties, are a part of life's tests. It is through these tests that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) distinguishes the patient and rewards them accordingly.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Talaq (65:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out and will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent.

This verse reassures us that those who fear Allah and rely on Him will be granted sustenance and assistance from unexpected sources. It highlights the importance of placing our trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than obsessing over worldly wealth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their intentions and actions regarding wealth. Those who tirelessly pursue material possessions and wealth, without considering the needs of others or the limits set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), will find themselves in a state of perpetual neediness. Their insatiable desire for more will never bring them true contentment or peace.

Conversely, those who are content with what they have and utilize their wealth in accordance with the teachings of Islam will be blessed with comfort and tranquility. This does not mean that Muslims should not strive for success or financial stability. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of moderation and gratitude. Muslims should work hard, seek lawful means of income, and use their wealth to benefit themselves, their families, and society as a whole.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautiful saying serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly possessions. It encourages us to seek contentment and satisfaction in the blessings that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us, rather than constantly striving for more. By doing so, we can attain true peace and tranquility in this world and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the path of moderation and contentment.