Hadith #6106

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

With covetousness comes humiliation.

This amazing Hadith highlights the negative consequences of greed and covetousness in a person's life. To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the important words and concepts it encompasses.

The word (dhull) "ذُّلُّ" refers to humiliation, disgrace, or abasement. It is the state of being brought low and losing one's dignity. (tamah) "طَّمَعِ" means covetousness or greed, which is an intense desire for wealth, power, or possessions.

To shed light on the wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the destructive nature of covetousness in several verses. 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 reminds us that the material possessions and worldly pleasures we desire are merely a test from Allah. Coveting them leads to a sense of dissatisfaction and discontentment, ultimately resulting in humiliation and loss of self-respect. The pursuit of worldly gains can blind us to the true purpose of our existence and distance us from the path of righteousness.

Another verse that reinforces the message of the 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 they create. Covetousness blinds us to the reality that true success lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and striving for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. The pursuit of material wealth and power can lead to a false sense of superiority and ultimately result in humiliation and regret.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the dangers of greed and covetousness. It teaches us that true honor and dignity lie in contentment and gratitude for what Allah has bestowed upon us. When we become consumed by our desires and constantly seek more, we lose sight of our true purpose and become susceptible to humiliation and disgrace.

By reflecting on this Hadith and the Quranic verses that support its message, Muslims are encouraged to cultivate a mindset of moderation and contentment. We should strive to be grateful for the blessings we have been given and avoid the trap of constantly desiring more. This does not mean that we should not work hard or strive for success, but rather that our intentions and motivations should be grounded in seeking the pleasure of Allah and benefiting others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of covetousness and greed. It teaches us that true honor and dignity are not found in the pursuit of worldly possessions, but rather in contentment and gratitude for what Allah has bestowed upon us. May Allah protect us from the pitfalls of covetousness and guide us on the path of righteousness.