Hadith #7995

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights three negative traits that prevent a person from enjoying a happy and content life: malice, jealousy, and bad character. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the word (hikd) "حِقْد" which is translated as "malice" in the Hadith. This refers to a deep-seated feeling of resentment and ill-will towards others. The Quran warns against harboring such negative emotions in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse teaches us the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and backbiting, as they lead to malice and animosity. When we constantly assume the worst about others and engage in gossip, we create an atmosphere of hostility and mistrust. This not only damages our relationships but also prevents us from experiencing true happiness and contentment.

Secondly, the word (hasad) "حَسَد" is translated as "jealousy" in the Hadith. Jealousy arises when we feel resentment towards others due to their possessions, achievements, or blessings. The Quran addresses this destructive trait in Surah Al-Nisa (4:32), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has ordained different provisions and blessings for each individual according to His wisdom. Instead of being envious of others, we should seek Allah's blessings and be content with what we have. Jealousy only breeds negativity and prevents us from appreciating our own blessings, leading to an unhappy and discontented life.

Lastly, the Hadith mentions (su' al-khulq) "سُوءُ الخُلْقِ", which translates to "bad character." This refers to the negative traits and behaviors that tarnish one's moral character. The Quran emphasizes the importance of good character in numerous verses, such as in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was known for his exceptional knowledge and exemplary character. He demonstrated kindness, patience, and forgiveness even in the face of adversity. Conversely, bad character traits such as arrogance, dishonesty, and cruelty not only harm others but also eat away at our own peace and happiness.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to avoid malice, jealousy, and bad character in order to lead a happy and content life. By following the teachings of the Quran and emulating the noble character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt, we can cultivate positive traits and attitudes that bring about peace, harmony, and true happiness in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to embody these virtues and grant us a life filled with tranquility and contentment.