Hadith #10057

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الْمَالُ يُقَوِّي الْآمَالَ" which translates to

Wealth strengthens one's hopes.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the relationship between wealth and aspirations.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us first analyze the key words. The word (wealth) "مَالُ" refers to material possessions, resources, and financial assets. It encompasses both tangible and intangible forms of wealth. The word (strengthens) "يُقَوِّي" signifies the enhancement, reinforcement, or empowerment of something. And finally, the word (hopes) "الْآمَالَ" refers to one's desires, ambitions, and aspirations for the future.

In the light of the Quran, we find several verses that shed light on the relationship between wealth and hopes. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:14),

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

This verse highlights the natural inclination of human beings towards worldly possessions and desires. It acknowledges that wealth, including gold, silver, and material possessions, holds an allure for people. It is through these possessions that individuals often seek fulfillment and satisfaction in their lives.

Another verse that supports the understanding of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse emphasizes that while wealth and children may be considered adornments of this worldly life, they are not the ultimate source of true fulfillment and hope. Instead, the enduring good deeds, such as acts of charity, kindness, and piety, are what truly bring about lasting rewards and nourish one's hopes in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us delve deeper into the exegesis of the Hadith itself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, highlights the role of wealth in strengthening one's hopes. Wealth, when utilized wisely and with a righteous intention, can serve as a means to achieve one's aspirations and goals.

For instance, financial stability and resources can provide individuals with the means to pursue education, establish businesses, support their families, and contribute to the betterment of society. It can empower individuals to invest in their dreams and work towards achieving them. In this way, wealth becomes a tool that strengthens one's hopes and enables them to make a positive impact in their lives and the lives of others.

However, it is important to note that the Hadith does not imply that wealth alone guarantees the fulfillment of one's hopes. Rather, it emphasizes the potential of wealth to provide a foundation for the pursuit of aspirations. True success and fulfillment lie in aligning one's wealth and resources with the principles of righteousness, justice, and compassion.

Furthermore, the Hadith encourages Muslims to reflect upon their intentions and priorities when it comes to wealth. It reminds us that the accumulation of wealth should not be an end in itself, but rather a means to serve a higher purpose. Muslims are reminded to be mindful of the responsibilities that come with wealth and to use it in ways that benefit both themselves and society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that wealth, when used wisely and with righteous intentions, can strengthen one's hopes and aspirations. However, it is essential to remember that true fulfillment and success lie in aligning our wealth with the principles of righteousness and using it to serve a higher purpose. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to utilize our wealth in a manner that strengthens our hopes and brings about positive change in our lives and the lives of others.