Hadith #2226

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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:

The cornerstone of [all] depravities is jealousy.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and its role in leading individuals towards immoral and sinful behavior.

The Arabic word used in this Hadith is (al-hasad) "الحَسَدُ", which translates to "jealousy" in English. Jealousy is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what another person possesses, whether it be material possessions, talents, or blessings. It is a feeling of discontentment and resentment towards others due to their perceived advantages or successes.

The Quran provides us with several verses that address the issue of jealousy and its detrimental effects. One such verse is found in Surah Al-Nisa (4:54), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against envy and jealousy:

(Quran 4:54)

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty? But we had already given the family of Abraham the Scripture and wisdom and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

This verse reminds Muslims that jealousy is a futile and harmful emotion. It questions the wisdom of envying others for the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Instead, we should recognize that Allah's distribution of His bounties is based on His divine wisdom and plan.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of jealousy is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76):

(Quran 28:76)

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse narrates the story of Qarun, who was blessed with immense wealth and resources. However, his jealousy and arrogance led him to oppress and tyrannize others. The Quran warns us against such behavior and reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not favor those who boast and take pleasure in their worldly possessions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to guard against jealousy and its destructive consequences. Jealousy not only harms our relationships with others but also tarnishes our own spiritual well-being. It leads to negative thoughts, actions, and ultimately distances us from the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that jealousy is the cornerstone of all depravities, indicating that it is the root cause of many other vices such as backbiting, slander, and even acts of aggression. When jealousy takes hold of an individual, it clouds their judgment, distorts their perception, and drives them to commit acts that are contrary to the teachings of Islam.

To overcome jealousy, Muslims should strive to cultivate gratitude and contentment in their hearts. They should recognize that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has a unique plan for each individual and that their own blessings are tailor-made for them. Instead of harboring envy, they should focus on self-improvement, seeking knowledge, and using their own talents and resources to benefit others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the destructive nature of jealousy. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that address this issue, we can gain a deeper understanding of the consequences of jealousy and strive to purify our hearts from this negative emotion. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the evils of jealousy and guide us towards a path of righteousness.