Hadith #6099

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الطمع محنة", which translates to

Covetousness is an affliction.

This short but wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental nature of covetousness and its impact on an individual's spiritual and moral well-being.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "Covetousness" refers to an intense desire for something that belongs to someone else, accompanied by a sense of envy or greed. It is a state of discontentment with one's own blessings and an insatiable longing for what others possess. "Affliction" refers to a trial or hardship that causes distress and suffering.

The Quran provides us with guidance on the dangers of covetousness and the importance of contentment. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive nature of greed and the love for worldly possessions:

(Quran 8:28)

And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that our possessions and relationships are tests from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Covetousness arises when we become overly attached to these temporary worldly things, forgetting the true purpose of our existence and the eternal rewards that await us in the Hereafter.

Covetousness not only leads to discontentment but also breeds negative qualities such as envy, jealousy, and greed. These vices can corrupt our hearts, damage our relationships, and hinder our spiritual growth. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive consequences of covetousness:

(Quran 57:20)

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 - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that the worldly pursuits driven by covetousness are temporary and fleeting. The true purpose of life lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, highlights the affliction of covetousness. By describing it as an affliction, he emphasizes the harm it inflicts upon the individual's heart, soul, and overall well-being. Covetousness leads to dissatisfaction, discontentment, and a constant craving for more, which can never be fulfilled.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to cultivate contentment and gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By recognizing the transient nature of worldly possessions and focusing on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter, we can protect ourselves from the affliction of covetousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims of the detrimental nature of covetousness. It urges us to seek contentment, gratitude, and detachment from worldly possessions. By doing so, we can attain inner peace, spiritual growth, and a closer relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the affliction of covetousness and grant us the strength to be content with His blessings.