Hadith #8782

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

القانعُ ناجٌ مِنْ آفاتِ المَطامِعِ

which translates to

The contented one is saved from the woes of covetousness.

This Hadith highlights the importance of contentment and warns against the dangers of greed and covetousness.

The word (al-qāniʿ) "القانعُ" refers to someone who is content and satisfied with what they have. They are not driven by a constant desire for more, but rather find peace and fulfillment in their present circumstances. This contentment is a virtue that protects individuals from the negative consequences of greed and covetousness.

The term (āfāt al-maṭāmiʿ) "آفاتِ المَطامِعِ" refers to the woes and afflictions that arise from covetousness. Covetousness is the insatiable desire for more wealth, possessions, or power. It is a destructive trait that can lead to discontentment, envy, and even unethical behavior. The Hadith warns that those who are consumed by covetousness will be plagued by various troubles and difficulties in their lives.

To understand the significance of contentment and the perils of covetousness, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of contentment and warns against the dangers of greed.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, 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 provisions for each individual according to His wisdom. It encourages us to be content with what we have and to seek Allah's blessings through gratitude and supplication.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah narrates the story of Qarun, a man who was blessed with immense wealth but became arrogant and covetous. Allah says, (Quran 28:80)

But those who had been given knowledge said, 'Woe to you! The reward of Allah is better for he who believes and does righteousness. But none are granted it except the patient'

This verse highlights the importance of knowledge and patience in cultivating contentment and warns against the destructive consequences of greed and covetousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for contentment in their lives. By being satisfied with what we have, we can protect ourselves from the negative consequences of greed and covetousness. Contentment brings inner peace, gratitude, and a sense of fulfillment. It allows us to focus on spiritual growth, helping others, and seeking the pleasure of Allah rather than being consumed by worldly desires.

Moreover, the Hadith encourages us to reflect on our intentions and motivations. It reminds us to be mindful of the dangers of constantly seeking more and to strive for a balanced and moderate approach in our pursuit of worldly possessions. By cultivating contentment, we can break free from the cycle of materialistic desires and find true happiness and tranquility in our hearts.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of contentment and the perils of covetousness. It urges us to be satisfied with what we have and to seek fulfillment through gratitude and seeking Allah's blessings. By embodying the virtue of contentment, we can protect ourselves from the afflictions of greed and find true peace and happiness in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all to be content and protect us from the dangers of covetousness.