Hadith #8791

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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, "القناعة علامة الأتقياء" which translates to

Contentment is the sign of the God-wary.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of contentment in the lives of the pious individuals who fear Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strive to please Him.

To understand the depth and wisdom behind this statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

Here, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of Taqwa, which can be understood as God-consciousness or piety. It is the foundation upon which a believer's actions and intentions are built.

Contentment, as mentioned in the Hadith, is closely linked to Taqwa. When one possesses contentment, they are satisfied and grateful for what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon them. They do not constantly yearn for more worldly possessions or status, but rather find peace and happiness in what they have. This contentment is a reflection of their trust in Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) divine wisdom and their recognition that true success lies in the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone.

In Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: 'My Lord! Cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit. And grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) support and guidance in all aspects of our lives. When a person is content with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided, they are more likely to seek His assistance and rely on Him in times of need. This reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) strengthens their faith and deepens their connection with Him.

Furthermore, contentment is not limited to material possessions. It extends to all aspects of life, including relationships, health, and circumstances. A person who is content with their relationships, for example, does not constantly seek validation or approval from others. They are satisfied with the love and support they receive, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that contentment is not a passive state of resignation, but an active choice and mindset. It requires a conscious effort to focus on the blessings and favors of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than dwelling on what is lacking. This mindset enables the believer to find contentment even in the face of difficulties and challenges.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of contentment as a sign of the God-wary. It is a reflection of a believer's trust in Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) divine wisdom and their recognition that true success lies in His pleasure. By cultivating contentment, we strengthen our faith, deepen our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and find peace and happiness in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to attain true contentment and be among the God-wary.