Hadith #2587

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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) states,

Extreme malice stems from the intense jealousy.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and its potential to lead to deep-seated animosity and enmity.

Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (shiddatu) "شِدَّةُ" translates to "extreme" or "intense," emphasizing the severity of the emotion being discussed. (al-hiqdi) "الحِقْدِ" refers to "malice" or "hatred," which arises from a deep-rooted resentment towards someone. Finally, (al-hasadi) "الحَسَدِ" means "jealousy," which is the feeling of envy or covetousness towards the blessings or success of others.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the destructive nature of jealousy in several verses. In Surah Al-Nisa, Allah says:

(Quran 4:32)

And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of his bounty. Indeed Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing.

This verse reminds us that Allah has apportioned His blessings and provisions to each individual according to His divine wisdom. Jealousy arises when we desire what others have been granted, failing to recognize that Allah has given each person their own unique share. By harboring jealousy, we reject the divine decree and question the wisdom of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Falaq, Allah says:

(Quran 113:5)

And from the evil of an envier when he envies.

This verse highlights the evil consequences of envy and the harm it can cause. When jealousy takes hold of a person, it can lead them to harbor ill feelings towards others, causing them to wish for harm or misfortune to befall those they envy. This enmity and malice can disrupt relationships, sow discord, and create a toxic environment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the dangers of jealousy and its potential to escalate into extreme malice. Jealousy, if left unchecked, can consume a person's heart and lead them to commit acts of harm and injustice against others. It blinds them to their own blessings and diverts their attention from self-improvement and personal growth.

To illustrate the consequences of jealousy, we can look at the example of the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Quran. Yusuf's brothers became intensely jealous of him due to their father's love and the beauty of Yusuf. Their jealousy led them to plot against him, ultimately resulting in his separation from his family and years of hardship. This story serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive consequences of jealousy and the importance of guarding our hearts against such negative emotions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that extreme malice is born out of intense jealousy. Jealousy, if not addressed and controlled, can lead to deep-seated animosity and enmity towards others. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that warn against jealousy and its consequences, we are reminded of the importance of contentment, gratitude, and recognizing the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. May Allah protect us from the destructive effects of jealousy and guide us towards a heart filled with love, compassion, and contentment.