Hadith #2209

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 noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the negative qualities of jealousy and greed, emphasizing their detrimental effects on an individual's character and well-being. Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding of its message.

The first word to analyze is "al-hasad" which translates to "jealousy" in English. Jealousy is an intense feeling of envy or resentment towards someone else's possessions, qualities, or achievements. It is a flaw that tarnishes one's character and leads to negative emotions and actions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes jealousy as a "fadih" which means a "shameful flaw" or a "disgraceful defect." This emphasizes the severity of jealousy and its negative impact on an individual's moral standing.

The second word to examine is "ashuh" which translates to "greed" or "covetousness." Greed is an insatiable desire for wealth, power, or possessions, often at the expense of others. It is a characteristic that leads to selfishness, exploitation, and a lack of contentment. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes greed as a "fadih" as well, highlighting its gross deficiency and the harm it brings to one's character.

To further understand the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) words, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against jealousy and greed in several verses, emphasizing their negative consequences and urging believers to strive for contentment and gratitude.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:32)

And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of his bounty. Indeed Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has apportioned sustenance and blessings to each individual according to His wisdom. It discourages jealousy and encourages believers to seek Allah's bounty through righteous actions and supplication.

In Surah Al-Hashr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive nature of jealousy and greed, saying, (Quran 59:7)

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding jealousy and greed in matters of wealth and resources. It emphasizes the need for a just distribution of wealth, ensuring that it reaches those who are deserving, including the Prophet (ﷺ), his family, orphans, and travelers. It serves as a reminder that jealousy and greed can lead to an unjust distribution of resources and a perpetuation of wealth among the rich.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect on their own character and to strive for self-improvement. Jealousy and greed are detrimental qualities that hinder personal growth, damage relationships, and create a toxic environment. By realizing our own hopes and aspirations and working towards them, we can overcome jealousy and find contentment and fulfillment in our own lives.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the negative qualities of jealousy and greed, emphasizing their detrimental effects on an individual's character and well-being. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for contentment, gratitude, and self-improvement. By reflecting on the wisdom of this Hadith and seeking guidance from the Quran, we can work towards purifying our hearts and cultivating positive qualities that bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the flaws of jealousy and greed and grant us the strength to overcome them.