Hadith #2230

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to purify our hearts from the disease of jealousy, as it is a source of sadness and weakness. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening saying in light of the Quran.

The word (hasad) "حَسَدِ" in Arabic refers to jealousy or envy. It is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what others possess and wishes for their loss or deprivation. Jealousy can lead to animosity, resentment, and even harm towards others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to cleanse our hearts from this destructive emotion.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of purifying our hearts from jealousy and envy. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse highlights the detrimental effects of negative assumptions, spying, and backbiting, which are often rooted in jealousy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) compares the act of backbiting to eating the flesh of one's deceased brother, illustrating the repugnance of such behavior. Jealousy can lead to these sins, as it clouds our judgment and causes us to view others with suspicion and ill intentions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive consequences of jealousy. He says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

The story of Qarun serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of jealousy and arrogance. Qarun was blessed with immense wealth, but he became arrogant and oppressed others. His people advised him not to boast about his riches, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not favor those who exult in their worldly possessions. This story highlights the negative consequences of jealousy, which can lead to arrogance, oppression, and a loss of divine favor.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that jealousy is not only harmful to others but also to ourselves. It is a "mukmid" - a depressing enfeebler. Jealousy consumes our hearts, causing us distress, sadness, and weakness. It hinders our spiritual growth and prevents us from attaining inner peace and contentment.

To overcome jealousy, we must cultivate gratitude and contentment within our hearts. We should focus on our own blessings and achievements rather than comparing ourselves to others. The Quran encourages us to be grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us. In Surah An-Nahl (16:18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And if you should count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

Reflecting on the countless blessings we have been granted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) helps us appreciate what we have and reduces our inclination towards jealousy. We should also make an effort to sincerely rejoice in the success and blessings of others, as this fosters a spirit of unity, love, and compassion within the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to purify their hearts from jealousy. Jealousy is a destructive emotion that not only harms others but also weakens and depresses the one who harbors it. By following the guidance of the Quran and cultivating gratitude and contentment, we can overcome jealousy and attain inner peace and tranquility. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to purify our hearts and protect us from the evils of jealousy.