Hadith #5902

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.

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

كَمْ مِنْ مُبْتَلًى بِالنَّعْماءِ۔

which translates to,

How many a person is tested with blessings!

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the fact that blessings and favors from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) can also be a test for individuals.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words and their implications. The word (mubtalā) "مُبْتَلًى" refers to someone who is tested or put through trials. It signifies the challenges and difficulties that individuals face in their lives. On the other hand, the word (naʿmāʾ) "نَّعْماءِ" refers to blessings or favors bestowed upon someone by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran provides us with numerous examples and teachings that support the message conveyed in this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) tests individuals through both hardships and blessings. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:28), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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

This ayah emphasizes that even the blessings of wealth and children are a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They can either be a means of gratitude and obedience to Allah or a source of distraction and deviation from the right path. Similarly, in Surah Al-Balad (90:4-6), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

We have certainly created man into hardship. Does he think that never will anyone overcome him?

These verses highlight the inherent nature of trials and difficulties in human life. They serve as a means of testing one's faith, patience, and gratitude towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). However, it is important to note that blessings can also be a test. They can lead individuals towards arrogance, ingratitude, and forgetfulness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that we should not become complacent or heedless when we are blessed with favors from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Instead, we should recognize these blessings as tests and use them to draw closer to Allah, express gratitude, and fulfill our responsibilities towards others.

For example, if someone is blessed with wealth, they should use it to help the less fortunate, support charitable causes, and fulfill their obligations towards their family and society. If someone is blessed with knowledge, they should use it to educate others, promote justice, and spread goodness. By doing so, they pass the test of blessings and fulfill their purpose in life.

Conversely, if someone becomes arrogant, selfish, or forgetful of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) due to their blessings, they fail the test and risk losing the favor of Allah. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:56), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And cause not corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) are not merely rewards, but also tests. We should be grateful for these blessings, utilize them in a manner pleasing to Allah, and remain humble and mindful of our responsibilities. By doing so, we can pass the test of blessings and attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in this life and the hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the right path and grant us success in our tests.