Hadith #9239

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

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

أزْكَى الْمَكاسِبِ كَسْبُ الحَلالِ۔

This can be translated as,

The purest of earnings is lawful earning.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (makasib) "مَكَاسِبِ" refers to earnings or gains, while (kasb) "كَسْبُ" means acquiring or earning. The term (halal) "حَلَالِ" signifies that which is permissible and lawful according to Islamic principles. It encompasses all actions, transactions, and earnings that are in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah.

The significance of this Hadith lies in its emphasis on the purity and righteousness of lawful earnings. Islam places great importance on the ethical dimension of economic activities, urging Muslims to engage in honest and lawful means of earning a livelihood. This Hadith highlights the spiritual and moral aspect of wealth accumulation, reminding Muslims that the source of their income should be free from any form of exploitation, fraud, or injustice.

The Quranic verses support the message of this Hadith, emphasizing the importance of lawful earnings and the consequences of engaging in unlawful practices. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188),

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 clearly warns against the unjust consumption of others' wealth and the corruption that can arise from seeking unlawful gains. It highlights the importance of integrity and honesty in financial dealings, reminding Muslims that their earnings should not come at the expense of others' rights.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.

This verse explicitly prohibits engaging in activities such as gambling and consuming intoxicants, which are considered unlawful and impure. It serves as a reminder that seeking wealth through such means not only goes against the teachings of Islam but also leads to spiritual and moral degradation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages Muslims to reflect upon the consequences of their actions and the impact of their earnings on their spiritual well-being. By adhering to the principles of halal earning, Muslims can ensure that their wealth is pure and untainted, leading to blessings and contentment in this world and the hereafter.

Engaging in lawful earning not only brings material benefits but also cultivates a sense of responsibility, fairness, and compassion towards others. It fosters a society based on justice and equality, where individuals are mindful of the rights of others and strive to contribute positively to the well-being of the community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of earning a livelihood through lawful means. It reminds Muslims that the purity and righteousness of their earnings have a profound impact on their spiritual and moral well-being. By adhering to the principles of halal earning, Muslims can ensure that their wealth is free from any form of exploitation or injustice, leading to blessings and contentment in this life and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to engage in lawful earning and bless our efforts.