Hadith #2063

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الحِرْصُ ذُلٌّ ومَهانَةٌ لِمَنْ يَسْتَشْعِرُهُ۔

This powerful statement warns us about the consequences of greed, describing it as a source of disgrace and humiliation for those who embrace it.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. "الحِرْصُ" refers to greed, which can be defined as an intense desire for wealth, power, or possessions. It is a state of covetousness and an insatiable craving for more. "ذُلٌّ" means disgrace or humiliation, indicating that greed leads to a loss of honor and dignity. "مَهانَةٌ" refers to humiliation, degradation, or being belittled. It signifies the lowering of one's status and reputation.

To understand the gravity of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Humazah (104:1-3),

Woe to every scorner and mocker, who collects wealth and counts it, thinking that his wealth will make him immortal.

This verse highlights the consequences of greed, as it leads to arrogance and a false sense of immortality. It is a warning against those who amass wealth without considering the ethical implications of their actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 teaches us to seek sustenance from Allah and to be content with what He provides. It emphasizes the importance of relying on Allah's blessings rather than being consumed by greed.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their intentions and actions. Greed can lead to a multitude of negative consequences, both in this world and the hereafter. It breeds discontentment, selfishness, and a disregard for the rights of others. It blinds individuals to the blessings they already possess and prevents them from appreciating the simple joys of life.

Moreover, greed can have far-reaching societal implications. It fuels corruption, inequality, and injustice, as those driven by greed seek to amass wealth at the expense of others. This creates a cycle of poverty and exploitation, further perpetuating social and economic disparities.

Conversely, Islam encourages moderation, contentment, and generosity. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267),

O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth. And do not aim toward the defective therefrom, spending [from that] while you would not take it [yourself] except with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving from what is good and pure, without seeking anything in return. It encourages Muslims to be charitable and to share their blessings with those in need.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to guard against greed. It warns us of the disgrace and humiliation that accompanies an insatiable desire for wealth and possessions. By reflecting on the teachings of the Quran, we understand that greed leads to arrogance, injustice, and a loss of contentment. Islam calls upon us to seek sustenance from Allah, to be grateful for His blessings, and to be generous towards others. May Allah protect us from the perils of greed and guide us on the path of moderation and righteousness.