Hadith #2123

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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his astonishment at those who possess the knowledge that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has guaranteed sustenance and has already ordained it for every individual, yet they remain greedy and relentless in their pursuit of wealth.

Let us delve into the key words of this hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (damina) "ضَمِنَ" means to guarantee or assure, indicating that Allah has promised and secured sustenance for every individual. The word (qaddarahā) "قَدْرَهَا" refers to Allah's divine decree and predestination of sustenance for each person. The term (sa'yahu) "سَعْيَهُ" refers to one's effort and endeavor in seeking sustenance. Lastly, the word (harīṣun) "حَرِيصٌ" denotes greed or excessive desire, while (dā'ibun) "دَائِبٌ" signifies one who is persistent and unrelenting.

To further comprehend the significance of this hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:62),

And Allah increases those who were guided, in guidance, and the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for recourse.

This verse emphasizes that true increase and sustenance come from Allah through guidance and righteous deeds, rather than through material wealth alone. It reminds us that our efforts should be directed towards seeking spiritual growth and performing good deeds, as they are the means to attain true success and sustenance from Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Talaq (65:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 reassures us that Allah is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and He can grant sustenance from unexpected sources. It reminds us to place our trust in Allah and rely on Him completely, rather than obsessing over worldly wealth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazement in this hadith stems from the contradiction between the knowledge of Allah's guarantee of sustenance and the persistent greed of individuals. Despite knowing that their efforts will not increase what has already been allotted for them, they continue to strive relentlessly for more wealth. This behavior reflects a lack of trust in Allah's promise and a misplaced focus on material possessions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of contentment and gratitude in our pursuit of sustenance. Instead of being consumed by greed and constantly seeking more, we should be grateful for what Allah has already provided and trust in His divine wisdom. This does not mean that we should not work hard or strive for success, but rather that our efforts should be grounded in righteousness and guided by the principles of Islam.

Reflecting on this hadith, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the importance of prioritizing our spiritual well-being. Our focus should be on seeking Allah's pleasure and performing good deeds, as these are the true measures of success and sustenance in the sight of Allah. Let us strive to align our desires and efforts with the teachings of Islam, seeking sustenance that is pleasing to Allah and beneficial for our eternal life in the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us contentment and gratitude in our pursuit of sustenance.