Hadith #2083

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Greed diminishes the status of a man and does not increase his sustenance.

This thought-provoking Hadith highlights the negative consequences of greed and emphasizes the importance of contentment and moderation in our lives.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (hiras) "حِرْصُ" translates to "greed" or "avarice." It refers to an excessive desire for wealth, possessions, or power, which often leads to unethical behavior and a disregard for the rights of others. The word (yanqusu) "يَنْقُصُ" means "diminishes" or "decreases," indicating that greed has a detrimental effect on a person's character and status. The word (rizqih) "رِزْقِهِ" refers to sustenance, encompassing not only material wealth but also spiritual and emotional well-being.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of contentment and warns against the destructive nature of greed. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 4:32)

And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of his bounty. Indeed Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing.

This verse reminds us that Allah has apportioned sustenance for each individual according to their efforts and abilities. It discourages us from desiring what others possess and encourages us to seek Allah's blessings through sincere supplication. Greed, on the other hand, leads to dissatisfaction and a constant desire for more, which ultimately diminishes a person's status in the sight of Allah.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of greed is found in Surah Al-Hashr, where Allah says, (Quran 3:180)

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 refuse to share it with those in need. It highlights the severe consequences of greed in the Hereafter, where those who withhold their blessings will be encircled by their own greed and face the wrath of Allah. This serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of material wealth at the expense of others' well-being is not only detrimental in this world but also in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Greed diminishes the status of a man and does not increase his sustenance,

encapsulates the timeless wisdom found in the Quran. Greed not only tarnishes a person's character but also hinders their spiritual growth and distances them from the mercy and blessings of Allah. It blinds individuals to the true purpose of life, which is to seek closeness to Allah through righteous deeds and selflessness.

By reflecting on this Hadith and the Quranic verses, Muslims are reminded to cultivate contentment, gratitude, and generosity in their lives. We should strive to strike a balance between our material needs and our spiritual aspirations, recognizing that true success lies not in accumulating wealth but in seeking the pleasure of Allah and benefiting others. May Allah protect us from the destructive nature of greed and grant us the wisdom to lead a life of moderation and contentment.