Hadith #2995

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

مِنْ كَمالِ الْحَماقَةِ الاِخْتِيالُ فيِ الفاقَةِ۔

This can be translated into English as:

Being conceited in poverty is the height of foolishness.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (ikhtiyāl) "اِخْتِيالُ" refers to being conceited or arrogant. It is derived from the root word (khayl) "خَيْل", which means to consider oneself superior or to boast. The word (al-faqah) "الفاقَةِ" refers to poverty or destitution.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of humility and gratitude, while warning against arrogance and pride. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says: (57:20)

And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that our worldly possessions are merely a test from Allah, and true success lies in the hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says: (31:18)

And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse cautions against arrogance and pride, as Allah dislikes those who are conceited and look down upon others.

Now, let us reflect on the exegesis of the Hadith itself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the foolishness of being conceited in poverty. Poverty is a trial that tests our patience, resilience, and reliance on Allah. It is a state of vulnerability that humbles us and reminds us of our dependence on our Creator.

When one becomes conceited in poverty, they fail to recognize the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the true source of sustenance, which is Allah. They become deluded by their material circumstances and develop a false sense of superiority over others. This arrogance blinds them to the blessings that can be found even in times of hardship and prevents them from seeking help and support from their fellow Muslims.

The consequences of such conceit are detrimental both in this world and the hereafter. In this world, it leads to a sense of entitlement and a lack of empathy towards those who are less fortunate. It hinders the development of a compassionate and caring society, as individuals become consumed by their own self-importance. In the hereafter, it jeopardizes one's spiritual growth and distances them from the mercy and blessings of Allah.

On the other hand, true wisdom lies in recognizing the transient nature of worldly possessions and embracing humility in all circumstances. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

Humility and dignity are the two wings of a believer.

This means that true strength and honor come from being humble before Allah and recognizing our dependence on Him.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us a valuable lesson about the dangers of arrogance and conceit, particularly in times of poverty. It reminds us to remain humble, grateful, and reliant on Allah, recognizing that true success lies in the hereafter. May Allah guide us to embody these qualities and protect us from the pitfalls of arrogance.