Hadith #6108

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, "الطمع رق مخلد" which translates to

Covetousness is endless bondage.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental nature of greed and the everlasting consequences it brings.

The word (At-Tama') "الطمع" refers to covetousness or greed, which is an insatiable desire for more wealth, possessions, or power. It is a state of constantly wanting more, never being satisfied with what one has. This insatiable desire leads to a perpetual state of bondage, as one becomes enslaved to their own desires and is unable to find contentment.

The word (Raq) "رق" means bondage or captivity. It signifies being trapped and restricted, unable to break free from the chains of one's own desires and ambitions. Covetousness, therefore, is not only a temporary state of dissatisfaction but a lifelong imprisonment that hinders spiritual growth and inner peace.

This Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds resonance in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive nature of greed in several verses:

1. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And those who, before them, had homes [in Medina] and had adopted the faith, love those who emigrate to them, and have no jealousy in their breasts for that which they have been given, and give them [emigrants] preference over themselves, even though they were in need of that. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of selflessness and the absence of jealousy in the hearts of believers. It encourages Muslims to be generous and prioritize the needs of others over their own desires. By doing so, they free themselves from the bondage of greed and attain success in both this world and the hereafter.

2. In Surah Al-Imran (3:180), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And let not those who [greedily] withhold what Allah has given them of His bounty ever think that it is better for them. Rather, it is worse for them. Their necks will be encircled by what they withheld on the Day of Resurrection. And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. And Allah, with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted.

This verse serves as a stern warning to those who hoard their wealth and withhold it from others. It highlights that such individuals may perceive their actions as beneficial, but in reality, it is detrimental to their own souls. On the Day of Resurrection, they will be encircled by the consequences of their greed, leading to their own spiritual downfall.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that covetousness is a destructive trait that leads to perpetual dissatisfaction and spiritual bondage. When one constantly desires more, they become trapped in a cycle of never-ending wants, unable to find contentment and inner peace.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of being content with what we have and avoiding the pitfalls of greed. By recognizing the dangers of covetousness and striving to overcome it, we can break free from the chains of materialism and attain true spiritual liberation. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all towards contentment and protect us from the bondage of greed.