Hadith #53

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الْقَنَاعَةُ مَالٌ لاَ يَنْفَدُ۔

This can be translated as,

Contentment is wealth that does not diminish.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (al-qana'ah) "الْقَنَاعَةُ" refers to contentment, satisfaction, and being pleased with what one has. It is a state of inner peace and tranquility that comes from being grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). (maal) "مَالٌ" means wealth or possessions, which encompasses both material and spiritual aspects. And (la yanfadu) "لاَ يَنْفَدُ" means that it does not diminish or decrease.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of contentment and gratitude. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 14:7)

And [recall] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'

This verse highlights the connection between gratitude and abundance. When we are content and grateful for what we have, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to increase our blessings. Contentment is not about having everything we desire, but rather appreciating and making the most of what we already possess.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah At-Talaq, where Allah says, (Quran 65:3)

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 reminds us that true wealth lies in relying on Allah and trusting in His provision. When we are content with what Allah has decreed for us, we find peace and fulfillment. Our focus shifts from constantly seeking more material possessions to seeking closeness to Allah and His pleasure.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, understood the significance of contentment. He exemplified this quality throughout his life, even in the face of hardships and challenges. His contentment was not a passive acceptance of his circumstances, but a proactive choice to find satisfaction and gratitude in every situation.

By embodying contentment, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) demonstrated the true meaning of wealth. It is not measured solely by material possessions, but by the richness of one's character, faith, and inner peace. Contentment allows us to break free from the never-ending pursuit of worldly desires and find true fulfillment in our relationship with Allah.

The consequences of embracing contentment are profound. It frees us from the shackles of materialism and greed, enabling us to focus on what truly matters in life. It cultivates a sense of gratitude, humility, and empathy towards others. Contentment also brings about a sense of tranquility and peace, as we are no longer consumed by the constant desire for more.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating contentment in our lives. We should strive to be grateful for the blessings we have been bestowed with, both big and small. By embracing contentment, we can find true wealth that does not diminish, and experience a sense of fulfillment that transcends the temporary pleasures of this world.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody contentment in our lives, and may He bless us with the true wealth of faith, gratitude, and inner peace.