Hadith #8452

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Poverty in one’s homeland is like being a stranger in it.

This amazing Hadith highlights the challenges and difficulties faced by individuals who experience poverty within their own community or country. To fully understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of its key words.

The word (faqr) "فَقْرُ" refers to poverty or destitution, indicating a state of lacking material resources and basic necessities. Poverty is not merely a lack of wealth, but a condition that affects various aspects of a person's life, including their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

The term (watan) "وَطَنِ" translates to homeland or country. It represents the place where one is born, raised, and has a sense of belonging. It encompasses the cultural, social, and historical ties that individuals have with their community.

The phrase (ghurba) "غُرْبَةٌ" means being a stranger or feeling alienated. It conveys the sense of displacement and isolation that arises when one is in a place where they do not belong or are not familiar with. This feeling of estrangement can lead to a sense of loneliness, vulnerability, and a lack of support.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Isra (17:70),

And We have certainly 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 emphasizes that Allah has bestowed honor upon humanity and provided them with sustenance and resources. Poverty, therefore, contradicts this divine honor and deprives individuals of their rightful share in the blessings of Allah.

In Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children.

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the superficiality of material wealth. It reminds Muslims that true success lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and prioritizing the well-being of others over personal accumulation of wealth.

When poverty exists within one's homeland, it creates a profound sense of disconnection and alienation. Individuals experiencing poverty may feel marginalized, overlooked, and excluded from the social fabric of their community. This can lead to a loss of self-esteem, dignity, and a feeling of being invisible or forgotten.

Moreover, poverty within a community can have far-reaching consequences. It perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage, limiting opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic mobility. It hampers the development and progress of society as a whole, as the talents and potential of individuals are not fully realized. In this context, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing poverty and working towards social justice within our own communities.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the duty incumbent upon Muslims to alleviate the suffering of those experiencing poverty. It calls upon us to extend a helping hand to our fellow brothers and sisters, providing them with the support and resources they need to overcome their challenges. By doing so, we can foster a sense of belonging, unity, and compassion within our communities, ensuring that no one feels like a stranger in their own homeland.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that poverty within one's homeland is akin to feeling like a stranger in it. It emphasizes the importance of addressing poverty and working towards social justice within our communities. By understanding the profound implications of this Hadith and acting upon its teachings, we can strive to create a society where everyone feels a sense of belonging, dignity, and support. May Allah guide us in our efforts to alleviate poverty and establish justice in our communities.