Hadith #4068

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

لايَسْلَمُ الدّينُ مَعَ الطَّمَعِ۔

This can be translated as,

Religion does not remain safe with avarice.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us delve into the important words it contains.

The word (deen) "دين" in Arabic refers to religion, faith, or way of life. It encompasses all aspects of a person's belief, worship, and moral conduct. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses both the individual's relationship with Allah and their interactions with fellow human beings.

The word (tamah) "طمع" refers to avarice or greed. It signifies an excessive desire for wealth, possessions, or power. It is a negative trait that can lead to selfishness, injustice, and the neglect of one's religious obligations.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9),

And those who came after them say, 'Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith and put not in our hearts [any] resentment toward those who have believed. Our Lord, indeed You are Kind and Merciful.'

This verse highlights the importance of having a pure heart and avoiding resentment towards fellow believers. Avarice can lead to envy and ill feelings towards others, which contradicts the essence of true faith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that religion cannot flourish in an environment tainted by greed and selfishness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive consequences of avarice. He says,

O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.

This verse highlights that indulging in forbidden activities, such as gambling, is rooted in a desire for material gain. Avarice can lead one to engage in sinful behavior, which ultimately harms their faith and spiritual well-being.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly desires. Avarice can corrupt one's intentions, actions, and relationships, leading to the erosion of their faith. When a person becomes consumed by greed, they may neglect their religious duties, exploit others, and lose sight of the true purpose of their existence.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, understood the detrimental effects of avarice on an individual and society as a whole. He emphasized the need for Muslims to cultivate contentment, generosity, and selflessness. By doing so, they can safeguard their faith and contribute to the betterment of their communities.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Religion does not remain safe with avarice,

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly desires. Avarice can corrupt one's intentions, actions, and relationships, leading to the erosion of their faith. By cultivating contentment, generosity, and selflessness, Muslims can safeguard their faith and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive effects of avarice and grant us the strength to live a life of piety and righteousness.