Hadith #9660

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

حَسَبُ الرَّجُلِ مالُهُ، وكَرَمُهُ دينُهُ۔

This Hadith highlights two important aspects of a person's life: wealth and religion. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound statement in light of the Quran.

The word (hasabu) "حَسَبُ" in this Hadith refers to the estimation or calculation of something. It implies that people often judge others based on their material possessions, considering wealth as a measure of a person's worth. However, the Hadith goes on to emphasize that true distinction lies not in material wealth, but in the honor and nobility of one's religion.

The word (maluhu) "مالُهُ" refers to a person's wealth or possessions. It signifies the material possessions that one accumulates throughout their life. While wealth can bring comfort and ease in this world, it should not be the sole criterion for measuring a person's value or status. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran:

(Quran 8:28)

And know that your possessions and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that worldly possessions are merely a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They are not the true measure of a person's worth or success. In the grand scheme of things, they hold little significance compared to the eternal rewards that await us in the Hereafter.

On the other hand, the word (karamuhu) "كَرَمُهُ" refers to a person's honor, dignity, and nobility. In this context, it refers to the honor that comes from practicing and upholding one's religion. The Quran beautifully states:

(Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.

This verse highlights that true honor and nobility come from righteousness and piety. It is not based on one's social status, wealth, or lineage. The true distinction lies in the strength of one's faith, their devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and their adherence to the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that while wealth may bring temporary comfort, it is the honor and dignity derived from practicing and upholding one's religion that truly matters. A person's faith and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) should be the guiding force in their lives, shaping their character, actions, and interactions with others.

This Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their religion over worldly possessions. It encourages us to seek honor and dignity through acts of worship, kindness, and compassion towards others. It teaches us that true distinction lies not in material wealth, but in the strength of our faith and our commitment to living a righteous life.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true value of wealth and the importance of prioritizing our religion. May He bless us with the honor and dignity that comes from practicing and upholding our faith. Ameen.