Hadith #10080

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,

شَرُّ الأمْوالِ ما أكْسَبَ المَذامَّ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

The worst [type of] wealth is that which earns censure.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (amwal) "أمْوالِ" in this Hadith refers to wealth or possessions. It encompasses all material possessions, including money, property, and other assets. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the fact that not all wealth is equal. Some forms of wealth are detrimental and harmful, while others are beneficial and praiseworthy.

To understand the concept of (mazamm) "مَذامَّ", which is translated as "earns censure," we need to reflect on the Quranic teachings. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against acquiring wealth through unlawful means or engaging in unethical practices. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 188, Allah says,

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse emphasizes the importance of earning wealth through lawful means and refraining from exploiting others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Ayah 80, Allah says,

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 highlights the importance of seeking sustenance and wealth through honest and righteous means, with the intention of pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that wealth acquired through dishonesty, exploitation, or any means that goes against the teachings of Islam is the worst form of wealth. Such wealth not only brings harm to the individual but also earns the disapproval and censure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of earning wealth through unethical means are far-reaching. Not only does it damage one's spiritual well-being, but it also has negative effects on society as a whole. When individuals prioritize their personal gain over the well-being of others, it leads to injustice, inequality, and a breakdown of trust within the community. This, in turn, creates a society plagued by corruption and moral decay.

On the other hand, wealth acquired through lawful means and used for righteous purposes can have positive impacts on both the individual and society. When wealth is earned through honest labor, fair trade, and ethical practices, it becomes a means of fulfilling one's needs, supporting one's family, and contributing to the welfare of others. It can be used to alleviate poverty, provide education, healthcare, and other essential services, and promote social justice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be conscious of the source of their wealth and to strive for ethical and lawful means of acquiring it. It urges us to reflect on our actions and ensure that our pursuit of wealth aligns with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of accumulating wealth that earns censure and instead strive for wealth that is beneficial and praiseworthy in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to earn and utilize wealth in a manner that is pleasing to Him and beneficial to ourselves and society. And may we always seek His forgiveness and mercy in our endeavors.