Hadith #2242

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الحسود لا يسود" which translates to

The jealous one never gains authority.

This Hadith highlights the negative consequences of jealousy and its impact on one's ability to attain leadership or authority.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "الحسود" refers to the one who harbors jealousy or envy towards others. Jealousy is a destructive emotion that arises when one desires what others possess, whether it be material possessions, achievements, or qualities. "لا يسود" means "never gains authority" or

never becomes a leader.

It implies that jealousy hinders a person's ability to attain positions of authority, influence, or leadership.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that shed light on the destructive nature of jealousy and its consequences. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 27:15-19)

And We had certainly given to David and Solomon knowledge, and they said, 'Praise [is due] to Allah, who has favored us over many of His believing servants.' And Solomon inherited David. He said, 'O people, we have been taught the language of birds, and we have been given from all things. Indeed, this is evident bounty.' And gathered for Solomon were his soldiers of the jinn and men and birds, and they were [marching] in rows. Until, when they came upon the valley of the ants, an ant said, 'O ants, enter your dwellings that you not be crushed by Solomon and his soldiers while they perceive not.' So [Solomon] smiled, amused at her speech, and said, 'My Lord, enable me to be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents and to do righteousness of which You approve. And admit me by Your mercy into [the ranks of] Your righteous servants.'

In this verse, we see the example of Prophet Solomon (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was blessed with immense knowledge and authority. He acknowledged the favor of Allah upon him and his parents and expressed gratitude. His humility and gratitude were key factors in his success and leadership. Jealousy, on the other hand, blinds a person to their own blessings and prevents them from appreciating the blessings bestowed upon others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive nature of jealousy and its impact on relationships and society. He says, (Quran 49:12)

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions, spying, and backbiting, which are often rooted in jealousy. Such behaviors not only harm individuals but also disrupt the unity and harmony within the Muslim community. Jealousy leads to animosity and ill-will, eroding the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that Islam seeks to establish.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to guard against jealousy and envy. Jealousy not only hinders personal growth and development but also prevents individuals from attaining positions of authority and leadership. It is a destructive emotion that breeds negativity, discontentment, and ill-feelings towards others. Muslims should strive to cultivate gratitude, contentment, and humility, recognizing that true success and authority come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should ask ourselves if we harbor any feelings of jealousy towards others. If so, we must seek to eradicate this destructive emotion from our hearts and replace it with gratitude and contentment. By doing so, we can strive towards personal growth, unity, and a harmonious society, in line with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive effects of jealousy and grant us the ability to appreciate and celebrate the blessings of others.