Hadith #691

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "رُبَّ صَديق حَسُود۔" This can be translated as,

Many a friend may be envious.

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

The word (sadiq) "صَديق" in this Hadith refers to a friend or companion. It is important to note that not all friends are equal, and this Hadith highlights a specific characteristic that can be found in some friends - envy or jealousy. The word (hasud) "حَسُود" means one who feels envy or jealousy towards others. Envy is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what another person possesses and wishes for it to be taken away from them.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and backbiting, which are often fueled by envy. Envy can lead to harmful actions such as spreading rumors, undermining others' achievements, or even wishing harm upon them. Allah warns us against such behavior and reminds us of the repugnance of consuming the flesh of our fellow human beings. Envy not only harms the one who is envied but also tarnishes the character of the one who harbors envy in their heart.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Falaq (113:5), Allah says,

From the evil of an envier when he envies.

This verse highlights the evil nature of envy and the harm it can cause. Envy can lead to animosity, rivalry, and the breakdown of relationships. It is a destructive emotion that can poison the bonds of friendship and trust.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the gate of knowledge, wisdom, and guidance, reminds us of the reality that even those close to us, our friends, can harbor envy. This Hadith serves as a reminder to be cautious and discerning in our relationships. While it is natural to have friends and seek companionship, we must be aware that envy can exist even within these relationships.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to be vigilant and discerning in our friendships, to choose companions who are sincere, trustworthy, and free from envy. It is crucial to surround ourselves with friends who support and uplift us, rather than those who harbor ill feelings towards our successes and blessings.

Moreover, this Hadith also serves as a reminder for self-reflection. We should examine our own hearts and intentions, ensuring that we are not harboring envy towards others. Envy is a disease of the heart that can eat away at our own happiness and contentment. Instead, we should cultivate gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us and seek to rejoice in the success and happiness of others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), "رُبَّ صَديق حَسُود۔" reminds us of the reality that envy can exist even within our friendships. It serves as a cautionary reminder to be discerning in our relationships and to choose companions who are sincere and free from envy. Furthermore, it calls for self-reflection and the cultivation of gratitude, as envy is a destructive emotion that can harm both ourselves and others. May Allah protect us from envy and guide us to be true and sincere friends to one another.