Hadith #3048

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Not having your needs fulfilled is better than seeking them from those who are not worthy.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking assistance and support from those who are deserving and capable of providing it.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it contains. The word (hajah) "حاجَةِ" refers to one's needs, desires, or requirements. It encompasses both material and spiritual needs that an individual may have. The word (talabiha) "طَلَبِها" means to seek or ask for something. And the phrase (min ghayri ahliha) "مِنْ غَيْرِ أهْلِها" translates to

from those who are not worthy

or

from those who are not deserving.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Furqan, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the righteous servants of Allah:

(Quran 25:63)

And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking assistance and guidance from those who possess knowledge, wisdom, and righteousness. The "ignorant" mentioned in the verse represent those who are not deserving of our trust and reliance. Therefore, it is better for a Muslim to refrain from seeking help from those who lack the necessary qualities to fulfill their needs.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against following the wrong path and seeking guidance from those who are misguided:

(Quran 18:23-24)

And never say of anything, 'Indeed, I will do that tomorrow,' Except [when adding], 'If Allah wills.' And remember your Lord when you forget [it] and say, 'Perhaps my Lord will guide me to what is nearer than this to right conduct.'

This verse reminds us to seek guidance and assistance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) Himself, as He is the ultimate source of knowledge and wisdom. It cautions against relying on individuals who may lead us astray or fail to fulfill our needs.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. It teaches us the importance of seeking help and support from those who are deserving, righteous, and knowledgeable. By doing so, we ensure that our needs are fulfilled in a manner that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge, wisdom, and piety. His words and actions were guided by the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Therefore, his statement carries great weight and serves as a reminder for Muslims to be discerning in seeking assistance and support.

By refraining from seeking our needs from those who are not worthy, we protect ourselves from potential harm and ensure that our actions align with the teachings of Islam. This Hadith encourages us to seek guidance from individuals who possess the necessary qualities to fulfill our needs in a manner that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking assistance and support from those who are deserving and capable of fulfilling our needs. It cautions against relying on individuals who may lead us astray or fail to fulfill our needs in a manner that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By adhering to this guidance, we protect ourselves and ensure that our actions are in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to seek help from those who are worthy and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.