Hadith #8593

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

When power increases, desire decreases.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims in understanding the relationship between power and desire.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (qudrah) "قُدْرَةُ" refers to power, ability, or capability. It signifies the capacity to influence, control, or achieve goals. On the other hand, (shahwah) "شَّهْوَةُ" refers to desire, passion, or lust. It represents the inclination towards fulfilling one's personal desires and cravings.

To comprehend the deeper implications of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:81),

And say: 'Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed is falsehood, [by nature], ever bound to depart.'

This verse highlights the transient nature of falsehood and deceit. Similarly, power, when used for unjust or selfish purposes, is temporary and fleeting. It may provide temporary satisfaction and gratification, but it ultimately diminishes and fades away. This is because power that is not based on righteousness and justice lacks the foundation to sustain itself.

In contrast, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83),

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter over worldly desires and ambitions. When individuals focus on attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), their desires become aligned with righteousness and piety. They seek power and influence not for personal gain, but for the betterment of society and the establishment of justice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that true power lies in self-control and the suppression of base desires. When one possesses the ability to control their desires and channel their energy towards noble causes, their power increases. This power is not derived from material possessions or worldly status, but from the strength of their character and their adherence to the principles of Islam.

For example, Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) demonstrated this principle when he resisted the advances of Potiphar's wife. Despite being in a position of power and authority, he chose to prioritize his faith and integrity over fulfilling his desires. As a result, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) elevated his status and granted him a position of authority in Egypt.

Conversely, we find examples in history where individuals in positions of power succumbed to their desires and lost their influence. The story of Qarun in the Quran serves as a cautionary tale. Qarun was blessed with immense wealth and power, but he became arrogant and indulged in his desires. As a consequence, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) caused the earth to swallow him and his possessions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true power lies in self-control and righteousness. When one prioritizes the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over fulfilling their personal desires, their power and influence increase. This power is not temporary or fleeting, but rather it is rooted in the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. Muslims should strive to emulate the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt, particularly Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), in harnessing their power for the betterment of society and the establishment of justice. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to control our desires and use our power for noble purposes.