Hadith #4443

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

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

مَنْ رَضِيَ بِما قَسَمَ اللّهُ لَهُ لَمْ يَحْزَنْ على ما في يَدِ غَيْرِهِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of being content with the provisions that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has decreed for each individual, and not feeling sorrow or envy towards what others possess.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (radiya) "رَضِيَ" means to be pleased, satisfied, or content. It signifies a state of inner tranquility and acceptance. (qasama) "قَسَمَ" means to divide or distribute. It refers to the divine allocation of provisions and blessings to each individual according to their own unique circumstances and needs. (yahzan) "يَحْزَنْ" means to be saddened or grieved. It refers to the feeling of discontentment or unhappiness that arises when one compares their own situation to that of others. (yadi) "يَدِ" means the hand, symbolizing possession or control.

The Quranic verses provide us with a profound understanding of the wisdom behind this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:23),

So that you may not grieve over what has escaped you, nor exult over what He has given you.

This verse reminds us that we should not be saddened by what we do not possess, as it is part of Allah's divine plan for us. Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse teaches us to seek contentment in what Allah has provided for us, and to trust in His wisdom and guidance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the detrimental effects of envy and comparison. When we constantly compare ourselves to others and desire what they possess, we become consumed by feelings of inadequacy, greed, and unhappiness. This leads to a never-ending cycle of discontentment, as there will always be someone who has more than us. By being content with our own blessings, we free ourselves from the shackles of envy and find peace within ourselves.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to recognize the divine wisdom behind the distribution of provisions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) knows what is best for each individual and provides them with what they need for their spiritual and worldly journey. When we accept and appreciate what Allah has allotted for us, we develop a sense of gratitude and humility. We understand that our provisions are tailor-made for our own growth and development, and that Allah's wisdom surpasses our limited understanding.

Practically applying this Hadith in our lives can have profound consequences. By being content with what Allah has given us, we free ourselves from the constant pursuit of material possessions and societal validation. We learn to appreciate the blessings in our lives, no matter how small they may seem. This contentment allows us to focus on our own personal growth, spirituality, and the well-being of others. It fosters a sense of inner peace and tranquility, as we are no longer burdened by the weight of comparison and envy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being content with what Allah has decreed for us. It reminds us to trust in Allah's wisdom and guidance, and to avoid the pitfalls of envy and comparison. By embracing contentment, we can find inner peace, gratitude, and a deeper connection with our Creator. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to be content with His provisions and bless us with a heart that is free from envy and sorrow.