Hadith #405

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

قَلِيلٌ مَدُومٌ عَلَيْهِ خَيْرٌ مِنْ كَثِيرٍ مَمْلُولٍ مِنْهُ

which translates to

A little that lasts is better than much that brings grief.

This amazing Hadith holds deep wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their daily lives.

Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (qalilun) "قَلِيلٌ" means "little" or "few", indicating a small quantity or amount. (madumun) "مَدُومٌ" means "that lasts" or "endures", implying something that is consistent and sustainable. (kathirin) "كَثِيرٍ" means "much" or "many", referring to a large quantity or amount. Finally, (mamlulin) "مَمْلُولٍ" means "that brings grief" or "burdensome", signifying something that causes hardship or distress.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse emphasizes the importance of moderation and balance in our lives. It reminds us that Allah, in His infinite wisdom, does not burden us with more than we can handle. Therefore, it is better to have a little that lasts, rather than an excessive amount that becomes overwhelming and burdensome.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:42), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We shall turn to whatever deeds they did and make them scattered dust.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and material wealth. No matter how much we accumulate, it will eventually turn to dust. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us that it is the lasting value and impact of our actions that truly matter, rather than the temporary satisfaction derived from material possessions.

In our pursuit of success and happiness, we often become consumed by the desire for more. We accumulate wealth, possessions, and achievements, thinking that they will bring us fulfillment. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true contentment lies in having a little that endures. This can be applied to various aspects of our lives, such as wealth, relationships, and even our religious practices.

For example, in the realm of wealth, it is better to have a modest income that is earned through lawful means and sustains us in the long run, rather than amassing great wealth through unethical or illegal means that ultimately brings grief and consequences. Similarly, in our relationships, it is better to have a few sincere and loyal friends who stand by us through thick and thin, rather than having numerous superficial connections that do not provide genuine support and companionship.

In terms of religious practices, it is better to consistently perform a few acts of worship with sincerity and devotion, rather than engaging in numerous rituals without true understanding or commitment. The quality of our worship and the depth of our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is more important than the quantity of our actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize quality over quantity in all aspects of their lives. It encourages us to seek lasting value and enduring benefits rather than temporary gratification. By focusing on what truly matters and avoiding excessive indulgence, we can find true contentment and lead a balanced and fulfilling life.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the profound teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the ability to apply them in our lives. May we strive for moderation, balance, and lasting goodness in all that we do.