Hadith #4393

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الرِّزقُ يَطْلُبُ مَنْ لايَطْلُبُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Sustenance seeks the one who does not seek it.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the concept of divine sustenance and the role of human effort in acquiring it.

The word (rizq) "رِزْق" in Arabic refers to sustenance, provisions, or livelihood. It encompasses all the resources and blessings that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) provides to His creation for their well-being. It includes not only material wealth but also knowledge, wisdom, health, and spiritual blessings. The word (yatlubu) "يَطْلُبُ" means to seek or pursue. It implies making an effort, striving, or actively pursuing something.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement suggests that sustenance seeks out those individuals who do not excessively focus on seeking it. It emphasizes the idea that while human effort is necessary, it is not the sole determinant of sustenance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate provider, and He bestows sustenance upon His servants according to His divine wisdom and decree.

This concept is beautifully echoed in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hijr (15:21),

And there is no creature on earth but that upon Allah is its provision, and He knows its place of dwelling and place of storage. All is in a clear register.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the sole provider for all living beings, and He has complete knowledge of their needs and sustenance.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And say, 'My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's support and guidance in all our endeavors. It reminds us that true sustenance comes from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) Himself, and we should rely on Him for our provisions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims. While it is essential to strive and work hard to earn a living, we should not become consumed by the pursuit of wealth and material possessions. Our primary focus should be on seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fulfilling our responsibilities towards Him and His creation.

When we prioritize our spiritual growth, seek knowledge, and engage in acts of worship, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will bless us with sustenance and provisions beyond our expectations. This does not mean that we should be passive or neglect our worldly responsibilities. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between our material and spiritual pursuits.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also teaches us to have trust and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We should work diligently, but ultimately, we should recognize that our sustenance is in the hands of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This understanding brings peace and contentment to our hearts, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the best of providers and will never abandon His servants.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Sustenance seeks the one who does not seek it

reminds us of the divine nature of sustenance and the importance of balancing our worldly pursuits with our spiritual growth. It encourages us to rely on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and trust in His provision while actively striving to fulfill our responsibilities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand this profound lesson and bless us with abundant sustenance in this world and the Hereafter.