Hadith #4656

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 phrase in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is "بِئْسَ الشّيمَةُ الإلحاحُ۔" This phrase can be translated into English as

What an evil trait importunity is!

Now, let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (shimah) "شّيمَةُ" refers to a trait or characteristic, and (al-ilhah) "الإلحاحُ" means importunity or persistence in asking for something. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the negative aspect of this trait, emphasizing its evil nature.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us to be patient and content with what He has provided for us. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 286, Allah says,

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that Allah knows what is best for us and that we should trust in His wisdom and plan for our lives. Importunity, on the other hand, reflects a lack of trust in Allah's decree and a desire for immediate gratification.

Furthermore, importunity can lead to negative consequences in both our spiritual and worldly lives. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, Allah warns against the trait of importunity by saying,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.

This verse reminds us to strike a balance between our worldly pursuits and our spiritual aspirations. Importunity can blind us to the blessings we already have and distract us from seeking the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Importunity can also strain relationships and create a sense of entitlement. In Surah Al-Ma'arij, verse 19-21, Allah describes the behavior of those who are impatient and demanding, saying,

Indeed, mankind was created anxious: When evil touches him, impatient, and when good touches him, withholding [of it].

This verse highlights the negative consequences of impatience and importunity, as it leads to a lack of gratitude and contentment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us of the importance of patience, contentment, and trust in Allah's plan. By avoiding importunity, we can cultivate a sense of gratitude for what we have been given and focus on seeking the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. Importunity only leads to dissatisfaction, entitlement, and a lack of appreciation for the blessings bestowed upon us.

As Muslims, we should strive to embody the qualities of patience, contentment, and trust in Allah's decree. By doing so, we can navigate the challenges of life with grace and humility, and ultimately attain success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the straight path and protect us from the evil traits that hinder our spiritual growth.