Hadith #8213

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

رُبَّ غَنِىّ أفْقَرُ مِنْ فَقير۔

This Hadith is a impactful saying that highlights the reality that sometimes a wealthy person may be in greater need than a poor person. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (rubba) "رُبَّ" in the Hadith signifies "many" or "numerous." It emphasizes the fact that this situation is not uncommon or rare. The word (ghani) "غَنِيّ" refers to a person who possesses wealth and material possessions. On the other hand, the word (afqar) "أفْقَرُ" denotes a person who is poor or in need.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the importance of recognizing the true value of wealth and the dangers of becoming attached to material possessions. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring

This verse emphasizes that the true provision and sustenance come from Allah, and material wealth is merely a temporary enjoyment of this worldly life. It reminds us that the richness of the heart and the contentment of the soul are far more valuable than any material possessions. Therefore, a wealthy person who lacks spiritual fulfillment and contentment may indeed be needier than a poor person who possesses inner peace and gratitude.

Another verse that supports the wisdom of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid, where Allah says, (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 highlights the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the illusion of their permanence. It reminds us that the true purpose of life is to seek the pleasure of Allah and prepare for the eternal life in the Hereafter. Therefore, a person who is attached to their wealth and is consumed by the pursuit of material gain may be spiritually impoverished, despite their apparent affluence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their priorities and to strive for a balanced approach to wealth and material possessions. It encourages us to focus on the richness of our faith, the strength of our character, and the depth of our relationships with Allah and our fellow human beings.

This Hadith also carries important implications for society as a whole. It reminds us of the responsibility to care for the less fortunate and to address the needs of those who may be silently suffering, even if they do not fit the stereotypical image of poverty. It urges us to look beyond outward appearances and to recognize the inner struggles and hardships that individuals may be facing.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize spiritual wealth over material possessions. It encourages us to seek contentment and fulfillment in our hearts rather than in the accumulation of worldly goods. It reminds us of the transient nature of this life and the importance of preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.