Hadith #10765

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 phrase "مَنْ نالَ اسْتَطالَ۔" from the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) can be translated as

Whoever obtains [great wealth or power] becomes overbearing.

This Hadith highlights the potential negative consequences that can arise when individuals acquire significant wealth or power.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Hashr (59:18) about the dangers of wealth and power when they are not used responsibly. Allah says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse reminds us that wealth and power should not be a source of arrogance or oppression. Instead, they should be used for the betterment of society and to fulfill our responsibilities towards Allah and His creation. When individuals become overbearing due to their wealth or power, they often neglect their duties and become consumed by their own desires.

Another verse in the Quran, Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), provides us with an example of the consequences of arrogance and abuse of power. The Pharaoh of Egypt, who was blessed with immense wealth and authority, became tyrannical and oppressed the Children of Israel. His arrogance led to his downfall and eventual destruction.

Similarly, when individuals become overbearing due to their wealth or power, they may exploit others, disregard justice, and neglect the needs of the less fortunate. This behavior goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize humility, justice, and compassion.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the potential pitfalls of obtaining great wealth or power. He reminds us that these blessings should not be a cause for arrogance or oppression, but rather an opportunity to serve and uplift others.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that it serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their intentions and actions when they are blessed with wealth or power. It encourages us to use these blessings in a way that aligns with the teachings of Islam, promoting justice, compassion, and the well-being of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the potential dangers of becoming overbearing when we obtain great wealth or power. It urges us to use these blessings responsibly, in accordance with the teachings of Islam, and to always be mindful of our duties towards Allah and His creation. May Allah guide us to use our blessings for the betterment of society and grant us the wisdom to avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and oppression.