Hadith #8829

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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, "مَنْ تَقَنَّعَ قَنِعَ۔" This can be translated as,

One who makes himself content becomes contented.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (taqanna'a) "تَقَنَّعَ" comes from the root word (qana'a) "قَنِعَ", which means to be content, satisfied, or to have a sense of sufficiency. It implies being pleased with what one has and not desiring more than what is necessary. The word (qana'a) "قَنِعَ" is derived from the Arabic word (qana'ah) "قَنَاعَةٌ", which refers to contentment and satisfaction with one's portion in life.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of contentment and piety. It teaches us that the best provision for our journey in this world is not material wealth or possessions, but rather, it is the fear of Allah and the consciousness of His presence in our lives. When we are content with what Allah has provided us, we are able to focus on developing our relationship with Him and attaining piety.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah At-Talaq, verse 3:

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 reminds us that Allah is the ultimate provider and sustainer. When we place our trust in Him and rely on Him alone, He will provide for us from sources we could never have imagined. This reliance on Allah and contentment with His decree brings about a sense of peace and tranquility in our hearts.

Now, let us reflect on the meaning of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, is teaching us the importance of contentment. When we make ourselves content with what we have, we free ourselves from the constant pursuit of material possessions and worldly desires. This contentment leads to inner peace and satisfaction, as we are no longer consumed by the never-ending cycle of wanting more.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging us to cultivate a mindset of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. When we are content with what we have, we are able to recognize and cherish the countless blessings that surround us, whether they are material possessions, relationships, or opportunities for personal growth.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a reminder that true contentment lies in the heart and soul, rather than in external circumstances. It is not dependent on wealth, status, or possessions, but rather, it is a state of mind and a reflection of one's inner peace and satisfaction. By cultivating contentment, we can find joy and fulfillment in even the simplest of things, and we are shielded from the negative effects of envy, greed, and materialism.

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

One who makes himself content becomes contented,

teaches us the importance of cultivating contentment in our lives. It encourages us to be grateful for the blessings we have been bestowed with and to find peace and satisfaction in what Allah has decreed for us. By embodying this principle of contentment, we can attain true happiness and fulfillment in this world and the hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to practice contentment and find tranquility in His divine decree.