Hadith #3480

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of good planning and avoiding wastefulness in the realm of politics. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (tadbir) "تَدْبِير" in the Hadith refers to planning, organization, and management. It encompasses the ability to make wise decisions and take appropriate actions in order to achieve desired goals. This highlights the significance of foresight and strategic thinking in the realm of politics. Muslims are encouraged to engage in politics with wisdom and prudence, ensuring that their decisions are guided by the principles of justice, equity, and the betterment of society.

The word (tabzir) "تَبْذِير" in the Hadith refers to wastefulness, extravagance, and squandering of resources. It warns against reckless spending and misuse of power, which can lead to the depletion of resources and the detriment of society. This teaches us the importance of responsible governance and the need to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal gain or lavishness.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the teachings of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31),

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

This verse reminds us to exercise moderation in our actions and to avoid extravagance in all aspects of life, including politics.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:26-27), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against wastefulness and extravagance, saying,

And give the relative his right, and [also] the poor and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the rights of others and refraining from wastefulness, as it is considered akin to the actions of the devil.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages Muslims to adopt a holistic approach to politics, where good planning and wise decision-making are coupled with the avoidance of wastefulness and extravagance. This approach ensures the efficient utilization of resources and the equitable distribution of wealth, leading to the overall betterment of society.

By adhering to the teachings of this Hadith, Muslims can establish just and prosperous societies, where the needs of the people are prioritized, and resources are utilized responsibly. It also serves as a reminder for those in positions of power to exercise their authority with integrity and accountability, always striving for the betterment of the community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of good planning and avoiding wastefulness in the realm of politics. It calls upon Muslims to engage in politics with wisdom and prudence, ensuring that their decisions are guided by the principles of justice and the betterment of society. By adhering to these teachings, Muslims can establish just and prosperous societies, fulfilling their responsibilities as stewards of the earth. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to implement these principles in our lives.