Hadith #5181

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, "الشَّرَهُ مَذَلَّةٌ۔" which translates to

Voraciousness is [a cause of] ignominy.

In this enlightening Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of excessive greed and gluttony.

To better understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications. The word (voraciousness) "شَّرَهُ" refers to an insatiable desire for more, whether it be in terms of wealth, power, or material possessions. This insatiable hunger leads to a disregard for moderation and contentment. The word (ignominy) "مَذَلَّةٌ" signifies disgrace, humiliation, and a loss of dignity.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Isra (17:70),

And indeed, We have honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse reminds us of the honor bestowed upon humanity by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the abundant blessings He has provided us with.

However, when individuals succumb to voraciousness and greed, they lose sight of this honor and become consumed by their desires. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) further warns in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9),

But those who came after them say, 'Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith and put not in our hearts [any] resentment toward those who have believed. Our Lord, indeed You are Kind and Merciful.'

This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking forgiveness and purifying our hearts from any resentment or envy towards others. Voraciousness leads to a constant desire for more, which can breed envy and resentment towards those who possess what we desire. This not only tarnishes our own spiritual well-being but also disrupts the unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the consequences of voraciousness by highlighting its link to ignominy. When one is driven solely by their insatiable desires, they lose their sense of dignity and self-respect. They become willing to compromise their principles, exploit others, and engage in unethical practices to fulfill their cravings. This not only harms their own spiritual growth but also tarnishes their reputation and standing among others.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of moderation and contentment in our lives. Islam teaches us to strive for success and prosperity, but not at the expense of our moral values and principles. We should be grateful for the blessings Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us and seek to share our wealth and resources with those in need.

Let us remember the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to overcome the trap of voraciousness. By cultivating contentment, practicing moderation, and seeking Allah's pleasure, we can protect ourselves from the ignominy that comes with excessive greed. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the strength to resist the temptations of voraciousness.