Hadith #9146

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

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

Nobleness is [being] free from jealousy.

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

The word "karām" in Arabic refers to nobility, honor, or generosity. It encompasses the qualities of being noble, dignified, and virtuous. The word "barī'" means to be free or devoid of something. In this context, it signifies being free from the negative trait of jealousy.

Jealousy is an emotion that arises when one desires what another person possesses or achieves, and feels resentment or envy towards them. It is a destructive emotion that can lead to animosity, hatred, and even harm towards others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that true nobility lies in being free from such negative feelings.

To further understand the importance of being free from jealousy, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive nature of jealousy in several verses. In Surah Al-Nisa (4:54), Allah says,

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty? But we had already given the family of Abraham the Scripture and wisdom and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

Here, Allah reminds us that envy towards others for the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah is futile and misguided.

In Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah says,

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 worldly possessions and achievements are temporary and fleeting. Therefore, jealousy towards others for their worldly gains is futile, as they hold no true value in the sight of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that true nobility lies in being content with what Allah has bestowed upon us and being genuinely happy for the blessings of others. This noble quality is exemplified in the life of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself. Despite his immense knowledge, bravery, and piety, he never displayed jealousy towards others. Instead, he supported and encouraged them in their endeavors, always striving for the betterment of the Muslim community.

By being free from jealousy, we cultivate a sense of contentment, gratitude, and humility. We recognize that every individual has been blessed with unique gifts and talents by Allah, and we should celebrate and appreciate these differences. Jealousy only serves to divide and create animosity among people, while true nobility brings unity and harmony.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true nobility lies in being free from jealousy. This noble quality is supported by the Quranic teachings that warn against the destructive nature of envy. By cultivating contentment, gratitude, and genuine happiness for the blessings of others, we can foster unity and harmony within the Muslim community and beyond. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to overcome jealousy and embody the true essence of nobility.