Hadith #1761

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

لايَدْخُلُ الجَنَّةَ خَبٌّ ولا مَنّانٌ۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as,

Neither a swindler nor one who put others under obligation, will enter Paradise.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The term (khabb) "خَبٌّ" refers to a person who deceives or cheats others for personal gain. This includes individuals who engage in fraudulent activities, dishonest business practices, or any form of deceitful behavior. On the other hand, the term (mannan) "مَنّانٌ" refers to someone who puts others under obligation by constantly reminding them of the favors they have done for them. Such individuals make others feel indebted and use this as a means of control or manipulation.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mutaffifin (83:1-4),

Woe to those who give less [than due], who, when they take a measure from people, take in full. But if they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss. Do they not think that they will be resurrected for a tremendous Day?

This Quranic verse warns against those who cheat or deceive others in matters of trade and commerce. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, fairness, and integrity in our dealings with others. Swindling and cheating are not only unethical but also a violation of the principles of justice and accountability that Islam upholds.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us in Surah Al-Baqarah (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 highlights the prohibition of unjustly taking the wealth of others. It condemns bribery and corruption, which are forms of deceit and manipulation that harm society as a whole. Such actions are contrary to the principles of Islam, which promote fairness, justice, and the protection of people's rights.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder that those who engage in fraudulent activities or manipulate others for personal gain will not be granted entry into Paradise. This Hadith emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and sincerity in our interactions with others.

The consequences of swindling and putting others under obligation are not limited to the material realm. These actions have spiritual implications as well. By engaging in deceitful behavior, individuals distance themselves from the path of righteousness and compromise their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They lose the opportunity to attain the ultimate reward of Paradise.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of conducting ourselves with honesty and integrity in all aspects of our lives. We should strive to be trustworthy individuals who fulfill our obligations and treat others with fairness and kindness. By doing so, we not only uphold the teachings of Islam but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the strength to resist the temptation of deceit and manipulation. May He purify our hearts and grant us the ability to enter Paradise, the ultimate abode of peace and bliss.