Hadith #8237

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Restraining oneself from that which is in the possession of [other] people is present affluence.

This Hadith highlights the virtue of contentment and self-restraint, emphasizing that true wealth lies not in accumulating material possessions, but in being satisfied with what one already possesses.

The word (zalafu) "ظَلَفُ" in this Hadith refers to restraining or holding back oneself. It implies the act of refraining from coveting or desiring what others possess. The word (nafs) "نَّفْسِ" refers to the self or the soul, and (amma) "عَمّا" means "from that which." The phrase (fi aydi al-nas) "فِي أيْدِي النَّاسِ" translates to

in the possession of people.

Finally, (huwa al-ghina al-mawjood) "هُوَ الغِنَى المَوْجُودُ" means "is present affluence."

To understand the essence of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of contentment and warns against the destructive nature of greed and covetousness. 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 sustenance to each individual according to His wisdom. It urges us not to envy or desire what others possess, but rather to be grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us. By restraining ourselves from coveting the possessions of others, we attain a state of present affluence, as mentioned in the Hadith.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring

This verse reminds us that the material possessions and luxuries of this world are merely temporary and a means of testing our faith. True wealth lies in the provision of our Lord, which is everlasting and far superior.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, teaches us through this Hadith that restraining ourselves from coveting the possessions of others leads to true affluence. When we are content with what Allah has provided us, we free ourselves from the constant desire for more and find peace and satisfaction in the present moment. This contentment brings about a sense of inner richness that cannot be attained through material possessions alone.

By practicing self-restraint, we cultivate gratitude, humility, and detachment from the material world. It allows us to focus on the blessings we already have and appreciate them fully. Moreover, it protects us from the negative consequences of envy, greed, and the constant pursuit of worldly possessions, which can lead to dissatisfaction, anxiety, and spiritual emptiness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the virtue of restraining ourselves from coveting the possessions of others. It reminds us that true wealth lies in contentment and gratitude for what Allah has already bestowed upon us. By practicing self-restraint, we attain a state of present affluence, finding inner richness and peace. May Allah guide us to embody this noble teaching and grant us the strength to be content with His blessings.