Hadith #9342

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

اللؤم إيثار المال على الرجال

which translates to

Vileness is preferring wealth over people.

This impactful saying made by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of valuing human beings over material possessions.

To understand the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (al-lu'm) "اللؤم" refers to vileness, disgrace, or ignominy. It signifies a moral degradation or a lack of noble character. (i'thar) "إيثار" means to give preference or priority to something or someone. And (al-mal) "المال" refers to wealth or material possessions. Finally, (ar-rijal) "الرجال" refers to people or individuals.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of valuing human beings and prioritizing their well-being over material possessions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177:

It is not righteousness that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse highlights the importance of giving wealth to those in need, even if one has an attachment to it. It emphasizes the significance of fulfilling the rights of others and prioritizing their well-being over the accumulation of wealth. By doing so, one attains true righteousness and displays a noble character.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80:

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 emphasizes the importance of seeking sustenance and provisions from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than solely relying on material possessions. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with Allah and seek His blessings and provisions, rather than being solely preoccupied with worldly wealth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of valuing human beings and prioritizing their well-being over material possessions. When we prioritize wealth over people, we risk losing our humanity and becoming morally degraded. This vileness can manifest in various ways, such as neglecting the needs of others, exploiting the vulnerable, or engaging in unethical practices for personal gain.

By giving preference to people over wealth, we demonstrate compassion, empathy, and generosity. We prioritize the welfare of others and contribute to the betterment of society. This mindset aligns with the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of social justice, equality, and the well-being of all individuals.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a call to action for Muslims to reflect on their priorities and evaluate their relationship with wealth. It encourages us to strive for a balance between material possessions and the well-being of others. When we prioritize people over wealth, we cultivate a sense of justice, compassion, and humility within ourselves. We become agents of positive change and contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Vileness is preferring wealth over people

reminds us of the importance of valuing human beings and prioritizing their well-being over material possessions. This thought-provoking Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the significance of social justice, compassion, and generosity. By giving preference to people over wealth, we cultivate noble character and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to prioritize the welfare of others and strive for a just and equitable world.