Hadith #4379

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:

لَنْ يَسْبِقَكَ إلى رِزْقِكَ طالِبٌ۔

This can be translated as,

No [other] seeker will ever overtake you in [acquiring] your sustenance.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (rizqika) "رِزْقِكَ" refers to sustenance or provision, encompassing all that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) provides for His creation, including material wealth, knowledge, skills, and opportunities. The word (talib) "طالِبٌ" means seeker or pursuer, someone who actively seeks and strives to acquire their sustenance.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:30):

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse highlights that no matter how much effort others may put into hindering or obstructing someone's sustenance, Allah's plan and provision will always prevail.

Additionally, in Surah At-Talaq (65:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us:

And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent.

This verse emphasizes that Allah is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and He can provide for us from unexpected sources. It reminds us to place our trust in Allah and rely on Him alone.

Now, reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that it is a reminder that no matter how much others may strive to acquire sustenance, they will never surpass what Allah has decreed for us. It highlights the importance of relying on Allah and having faith in His divine plan. As Muslims, we should not be consumed by the pursuit of worldly possessions, but rather focus on seeking the pleasure of Allah and fulfilling our responsibilities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that our sustenance is ultimately in the hands of Allah. This Hadith encourages us to strive for sustenance through lawful means, while recognizing that our efforts alone are not the sole determinant of our provision. It teaches us to have contentment and trust in Allah's plan, knowing that He is the best of providers.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to maintain a balanced approach to acquiring sustenance. It reminds us not to be envious or covetous of others' wealth or possessions, as each individual's sustenance is determined by Allah's divine wisdom. It encourages us to focus on our own journey and to be grateful for the provisions that Allah has bestowed upon us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that no one can surpass or overtake us in acquiring our sustenance, as it is ultimately determined by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us to rely on Allah, seek sustenance through lawful means, and be content with what Allah has provided for us. May Allah grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.