Hadith #8247

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 progeny, and his righteous companions.

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

لاغِنى مَعَ سُوءِ تَدْبير۔

which translates to

No affluence [can be acquired] with mismanagement.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims in matters of financial management and planning.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "لاغِنى" refers to affluence, wealth, or prosperity. It encompasses not only material possessions but also spiritual and emotional well-being. "سُوءِ" means bad or improper, indicating actions or decisions that are contrary to what is right and beneficial. "تَدْبير" refers to management, planning, or organization.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of proper management and planning in attaining affluence. It highlights the fact that wealth and prosperity cannot be achieved or sustained without sound judgment, wise decision-making, and effective planning. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that they should not only strive to earn wealth but also manage it responsibly and ethically.

The Quran provides several verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support in all our endeavors, including financial matters. It encourages believers to seek stability and security in their financial affairs by making wise decisions and seeking Allah's blessings.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse warns against engaging in unjust practices in financial matters, such as bribery or exploiting others' wealth. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, fairness, and ethical conduct in managing wealth.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a practical guide for Muslims in their financial affairs. It reminds us that acquiring wealth alone is not enough; we must also manage it wisely and responsibly. Mismanagement can lead to financial difficulties, loss of wealth, and even moral corruption. By adhering to the principles of proper planning, ethical conduct, and seeking Allah's guidance, Muslims can ensure the growth and preservation of their wealth.

For example, a person who earns a substantial income but fails to budget, save, or invest wisely may find themselves in a constant state of financial stress and instability. On the other hand, someone who manages their finances prudently, adheres to a budget, and makes informed investment decisions is more likely to experience financial security and prosperity.

Moreover, mismanagement of wealth can have broader societal implications. When individuals or institutions engage in corrupt practices, such as embezzlement, fraud, or exploitation, it not only harms individuals but also undermines the overall economic and social fabric of society. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims to uphold integrity, honesty, and fairness in their financial dealings, thereby contributing to a just and prosperous society.

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

No affluence [can be acquired] with mismanagement

highlights the importance of proper management and planning in attaining and preserving wealth. It serves as a practical guide for Muslims in their financial affairs, reminding them to seek Allah's guidance, make wise decisions, and adhere to ethical conduct. By doing so, Muslims can not only achieve personal financial stability but also contribute to the well-being and prosperity of society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and discipline to manage our wealth responsibly.