Hadith #8844

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

مَنِ اكْتَقى بِاليَسيرِ اِسْتَغْنى عَنِ الكَثيرِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who suffices with little becomes needless of plenty.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (iktqa) "اكْتَقَى" in the Hadith refers to someone who is content with a small amount or who is satisfied with what is sufficient. This person does not constantly seek more and more, but rather finds contentment in what they have. The word (al-yaseer) "اليَسِيرِ" means "little" or "a small amount." It signifies the idea of moderation and not being excessive in one's desires and wants. On the other hand, the word (al-katheer) "الكَثِيرِ" means "plenty" or "an abundance."

The essence of this Hadith is that when a person is content with what they have, even if it is little, they become needless of seeking more and more. This contentment leads to a sense of self-sufficiency and inner peace. It teaches us the importance of being grateful for the blessings we have been bestowed with and not constantly yearning for more.

The Quran provides us with several verses that support the message of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 14:7)

And [recall] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of gratitude and contentment. When we are grateful for what we have, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to increase us in blessings.

Another verse that aligns with the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 not to be envious of the material possessions or wealth of others. Our sustenance and provisions come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and what He provides is far superior and everlasting.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us the importance of contentment and moderation in our lives. When we are constantly chasing after more and more, we become slaves to our desires and lose sight of the true purpose of our existence. By being satisfied with what we have, we free ourselves from the never-ending pursuit of material possessions and find tranquility in our hearts.

This Hadith also highlights the virtue of self-restraint and the ability to control our desires. It encourages us to prioritize our needs over our wants and to be mindful of our consumption. By sufficing with little, we become more conscious of our actions and develop a sense of responsibility towards the resources that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has entrusted us with.

Moreover, this Hadith reminds us of the importance of gratitude. When we are content with what we have, we recognize the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Gratitude is a fundamental aspect of our faith, and it is through gratitude that we open the doors for further blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the profound lesson of contentment and self-sufficiency. It urges us to be grateful for what we have and to avoid the constant pursuit of material possessions. By sufficing with little, we find inner peace and develop a sense of responsibility towards our resources. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to embody the teachings of this Hadith and lead a life of contentment and gratitude.