Hadith #6136

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

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

لاشيمَةَ أذَلُّ مِنَ الطَّمَعِ۔

This translates to,

There is no quality more abased than covetousness.

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

The word (tamā') "طَمَع" in this Hadith refers to an intense desire or greed for worldly possessions. It encompasses the insatiable longing for material wealth, power, and status. This covetousness is a detrimental quality that can lead to moral degradation and spiritual downfall.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the destructive nature of covetousness in the Quran. In Surah Al-Hashr, verse 9, Allah says, (59:9)

And let not those who possess [worldly] bounty swear to withhold it from relatives and the needy and the emigrants for the cause of Allah. And let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of not withholding wealth from those in need, emphasizing the virtue of generosity and selflessness. Covetousness, on the other hand, blinds individuals to the needs of others and promotes selfishness and greed.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, Allah warns against the consequences of covetousness, stating, (28:77)

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse advises Muslims to prioritize the pursuit of the Hereafter while not neglecting their responsibilities in this world. It reminds us to strike a balance between worldly possessions and our spiritual growth. Covetousness, however, leads to corruption and a disregard for the well-being of society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the abasement of covetousness in this Hadith. When one becomes consumed by greed and the desire for more, they lose sight of their moral values and the higher purpose of life. Covetousness breeds discontentment, envy, and a constant craving for material possessions, ultimately leading to a state of spiritual degradation.

The consequences of covetousness are far-reaching. It not only affects the individual's relationship with Allah but also their interactions with fellow human beings. Covetousness breeds a sense of competition and rivalry, creating divisions within society. It fosters an environment of inequality, as those driven by greed hoard wealth and resources, depriving others of their rights.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, warns us against the abasement of covetousness. He encourages Muslims to strive for contentment and gratitude for what Allah has bestowed upon them. By being satisfied with what we have and using our blessings to benefit others, we can elevate our spiritual state and contribute to the betterment of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the abasement of covetousness. It urges Muslims to guard against the insatiable desire for worldly possessions and instead focus on the pursuit of spiritual growth and the betterment of society. By understanding the detrimental consequences of covetousness and seeking contentment, we can strive towards a higher moral and spiritual state, in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt.