Hadith #1431

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

Avarice is one of the most revolting traits.

The word used in Arabic for "avarice" is (شُّحُّ) "shuh". Shuh refers to extreme greed or stinginess, where a person is excessively attached to their wealth and possessions, unwilling to share or give to others. It is a negative characteristic that goes against the principles of generosity and selflessness.

To understand the gravity of this trait, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the dangers of greed and stinginess in several verses. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 2:264)

O you who have believed, do not invalidate your charities with reminders or injury as does one who spends his wealth [only] to be seen by the people and does not believe in Allah and the Last Day. His example is like that of a [large] smooth stone upon which is dust and is hit by a downpour that leaves it bare. They are unable [to keep] anything of what they have earned. And Allah does not guide the disbelieving people.

This verse highlights the consequences of being miserly and seeking recognition for one's charity. Such actions are driven by a desire for worldly praise rather than sincere devotion to Allah. The analogy of a smooth stone being washed away by rain emphasizes the futility of accumulating wealth for selfish purposes. Muslims are reminded that true charity is not just about giving material possessions but also about purifying one's intentions and seeking the pleasure of Allah.

Another verse that sheds light on the revolting nature of avarice is found in Surah Al-Hashr. Allah says, (Quran 3:180)

And let not those who [greedily] withhold what Allah has given them of His bounty ever think that it is better for them. Rather, it is worse for them. Their necks will be encircled by what they withheld on the Day of Resurrection. And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. And Allah, with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that those who hoard their wealth and withhold it from those in need are deluded in thinking that their actions are beneficial. In reality, their greed will have severe consequences in the Hereafter. The imagery of their necks being encircled by what they withheld serves as a powerful metaphor for the burden and accountability they will face on the Day of Resurrection. It is a stark reminder that wealth is a trust from Allah, and it should be used to benefit others rather than being selfishly held onto.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement about avarice being one of the most revolting traits aligns with the teachings of the Quran. Avarice not only harms individuals by preventing them from fulfilling their obligations towards others, but it also goes against the principles of justice, compassion, and generosity that Islam promotes. It is a trait that hinders personal growth, damages relationships, and creates a society marked by inequality and injustice.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded to examine their own hearts and actions. We must strive to cultivate a spirit of generosity, selflessness, and detachment from worldly possessions. By doing so, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the noble example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. Let us seek Allah's forgiveness for any traces of avarice within ourselves and strive to be among those who are known for their generosity and kindness. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the vices of greed and stinginess.