Hadith #6353

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights three negative traits: cowardice, greediness, and stinginess. These traits are described as "غَرائِزُ سُوء" which can be translated as "evil characteristics" or "vices." Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that these vices are brought together by one common factor - thinking ill of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of trust in Him, having good expectations of Him, and seeking His help in times of difficulty. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 286, Allah says, (Quran 2:286)

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear

This verse reassures us that Allah is aware of our capabilities and will not burden us with more than we can handle.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Talaq, verse 2-3, Allah says, (Quran 65:2-3)

And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect

These verses remind us that Allah is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and He will always provide for us, even in ways we cannot imagine.

Now, let us reflect on the three vices mentioned in the Hadith - cowardice, greediness, and stinginess - and how they are connected to thinking ill of Allah.

Cowardice is the fear or reluctance to face challenges or difficulties. When one thinks ill of Allah, they doubt His ability to help them overcome obstacles. This lack of trust in Allah's power and mercy leads to cowardice, as they do not have faith in His support and guidance. However, as Muslims, we are taught to have courage and rely on Allah's strength. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 46, Allah says, (Quran 8:46)

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart

This verse encourages us to have faith in Allah's commandments and not let fear weaken us.

Greediness is the excessive desire for wealth, possessions, or power. When one thinks ill of Allah, they believe that Allah will not provide for them abundantly, and thus, they become consumed by greed. However, the Quran repeatedly reminds us that Allah is the ultimate provider and that wealth and sustenance are in His control. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah says, (Quran 17:80)

And We provide [for] them and for you. And there is not from your provision that is spent except that We have sent it down in a known measure

This verse assures us that Allah is the one who provides for all of His creation, and there is no need to be greedy or hoard wealth.

Stinginess is the unwillingness to share or give generously. When one thinks ill of Allah, they doubt His generosity and become possessive of their resources. However, the Quran teaches us the importance of generosity and giving for the sake of Allah. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261, Allah says, (Quran 2:261)

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing

This verse illustrates the blessings and rewards that come with giving for the sake of Allah, and it encourages us to be generous and open-hearted.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid the vices of cowardice, greediness, and stinginess. These vices are interconnected and are rooted in thinking ill of Allah. By having trust in Allah's power, mercy, and provision, we can overcome these negative traits and cultivate positive qualities such as courage, contentment, and generosity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always have good expectations of Him and to strive for virtuous character.