Hadith #8674

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 pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The bane of moderation is stinginess.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening saying and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (iqtisad) "اقتصاد" refers to moderation or balance in managing one's resources, while (bukhl) "بخل" translates to stinginess or miserliness. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that stinginess is a detrimental quality that undermines the essence of moderation.

To comprehend the wisdom behind this statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of moderation and balance in various aspects of life. For instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 143, Allah says,

And thus We have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you.

This verse highlights the significance of moderation in establishing a just and balanced society.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages moderation in matters of wealth and spending. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 29, Allah says,

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse cautions against both excessive spending and extreme stinginess, emphasizing the need for moderation in managing our resources.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) elucidates the consequences of stinginess within the framework of moderation. When one becomes excessively stingy, they deviate from the balanced path and fail to fulfill their responsibilities towards themselves, their families, and society. Stinginess hinders the growth of individuals and communities, as it prevents the circulation of wealth and the fulfillment of basic needs.

Moreover, stinginess creates a negative mindset that hampers the development of generosity, compassion, and empathy. It breeds a sense of selfishness and greed, which are antithetical to the teachings of Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself said, (Sunan Ibn Majah)

The believer's shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity

This Hadith highlights the importance of generosity and selflessness, which are obstructed by stinginess.

Furthermore, stinginess can lead to a lack of trust and harmony within society. When individuals withhold their wealth and resources, it creates disparities and inequalities, which can breed resentment and discord. Islam encourages the equitable distribution of wealth and the support of those in need, as exemplified by the concept of Zakat and other forms of charity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the detrimental effects of stinginess within the framework of moderation. Stinginess not only hampers personal growth and societal development but also contradicts the teachings of Islam, which emphasize generosity, compassion, and balance. As Muslims, we should strive to embody the qualities of moderation and generosity, recognizing that true success lies in striking a harmonious balance in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us on the path of moderation and protect us from the pitfalls of stinginess.