Hadith #4398

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,

اِرْضَ بِما قُسِمَ لَكَ تَكُنْ مُؤْمِناً۔

This can be translated as,

Be satisfied with that which has been apportioned for you and you will be a [true] believer.

Let us delve into the meaning of some key words in this Hadith. The word (irḍa) "اِرْضَ" means to be content, to be pleased, and to accept. It signifies a state of inner tranquility and satisfaction. The word (qusima) "قُسِمَ" means to be divided or apportioned. It refers to the distribution of provisions and blessings by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) according to His divine wisdom and decree. The word (mu'minan) "مُؤْمِناً" means a true believer, someone who has complete faith and trust in Allah.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216:

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse reminds us that sometimes we may desire something that is not in our best interest, while Allah, in His infinite wisdom, knows what is truly beneficial for us. Therefore, being content with what Allah has apportioned for us is a sign of true faith and trust in His divine plan.

Another verse that supports the message 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 assures us that Allah is the ultimate provider and sustainer. He can bless us with provisions from unexpected sources and fulfill our needs beyond our imagination. Therefore, being content with our apportioned share is a manifestation of our reliance on Allah's infinite mercy and provision.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, advises us to be satisfied with what Allah has decreed for us. This teaching encourages us to embrace contentment and gratitude, regardless of our circumstances. By doing so, we demonstrate our faith in Allah's wisdom and our recognition that He knows what is best for us.

When we are content with our apportioned share, we free ourselves from the shackles of envy, greed, and materialism. We find peace within ourselves and develop a sense of inner tranquility. This contentment allows us to focus on our spiritual growth and the pursuit of righteousness. It helps us to appreciate the blessings we have been given and to use them in a manner that pleases Allah.

Moreover, being content with our apportioned share enables us to maintain harmonious relationships with others. It prevents us from coveting what others possess and fosters a spirit of cooperation and goodwill. It encourages us to support one another and work towards the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of contentment and acceptance of our apportioned share. It teaches us to trust in Allah's divine plan and to be grateful for the blessings He has bestowed upon us. By embodying this teaching, we can attain true faith and find inner peace. May Allah grant us the ability to be content with His decree and to be among the true believers.