Hadith #5184

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "اَلشَّرَهُ سَجيَّةُ الأرْجاسِ۔" This can be translated as,

Voraciousness is the trait of the filthy.

To understand the significance behind this statement, let us delve into the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (sharah) "شَّرَهُ" refers to voraciousness or excessive greed. It is the intense desire to consume and acquire more than what is necessary. This trait is detrimental as it leads to selfishness, hoarding, and a disregard for others. The word (sajiyah) "سَجيَّةُ" means filthy or impure. It signifies the moral corruption and degradation that is associated with voraciousness.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the destructive nature of excessive greed in Surah Al-Isra, verse 29:

(Quran 17:29)

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse cautions us against being excessively attached to our wealth and possessions, as it can lead to financial ruin and moral degradation. It highlights the importance of moderation and contentment in our lives.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 188, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) addresses the issue of greed and its consequences:

(Quran 2:188)

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of unjustly acquiring wealth and using it for personal gain at the expense of others. It highlights the importance of fairness, honesty, and integrity in our financial dealings.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. By stating that voraciousness is the trait of the filthy, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the moral degradation and impurity that is associated with excessive greed. He is reminding us that greed not only harms our own souls but also tarnishes our character and relationships with others.

When one becomes consumed by voraciousness, they prioritize their own desires and needs above all else. This leads to a disregard for the well-being of others and a lack of empathy. It breeds selfishness, hoarding, and an insatiable desire for more, regardless of the consequences.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging us to strive for moderation and contentment in our lives. He is reminding us of the importance of sharing our blessings with others and being mindful of their needs. By rejecting voraciousness, we can cultivate a sense of generosity, compassion, and selflessness within ourselves.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive nature of excessive greed. It calls upon us to reflect on our own desires and to strive for moderation and contentment. By rejecting voraciousness, we can purify our souls, strengthen our character, and foster harmonious relationships with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and protect us from the trait of the filthy.