Hadith #2258

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الحسود لاشفاء له" which translates to

For the jealous one, there is no cure.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the destructive nature of jealousy.

The word (al-hasud) "الحسود" refers to a person who harbors jealousy or envy towards others. Jealousy is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what others possess, whether it be material possessions, success, or blessings. It is important to note that not all forms of envy are negative; Islam encourages healthy competition and aspiration for goodness. However, the jealousy mentioned in this Hadith is the harmful and malicious kind that leads to harm and ill-will towards others.

To understand the gravity of this statement, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the dangers of jealousy in several verses. In Surah Al-Nisa, Allah says, (Quran 4:54)

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty?

This verse highlights the futility of jealousy, as everything we possess is ultimately a gift from Allah. Jealousy implies discontentment with the divine decree and ingratitude for the blessings bestowed upon others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 57:26-29)

And We had already given Moses and Aaron the criterion and a light and a reminder for the righteous who fear their Lord unseen, while they are of the Hour apprehensive. And this [Quran] is a blessed message which We have sent down. Then are you with it unacquainted? And We had certainly given Abraham his sound judgement before, and We were of him well-Knowing. When he said to his father and his people, 'What are these statues to which you are devoted?' They said, 'We found our fathers worshippers of them.' He said, 'You were certainly, you and your fathers, in manifest error.' They said, 'Have you come to us with truth, or are you of those who jest?' He said, 'No, [rather], your Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth who created them, and I, to that, am of those who testify. And [I swear] by Allah, I will surely plan against your idols after you have turned and gone away.' So he made them into fragments, except a large one among them, that they might return to it [and question]. They said, 'Who has done this to our gods? Indeed, he is of the wrongdoers.' They said, 'We heard a young man mention them who is called Abraham.' They said, 'Then bring him before the eyes of the people that they may testify.' They said, 'Have you done this to our gods, O Abraham?' He said, 'Rather, this - the largest of them - did it, so ask them, if they should [be able to] speak.' So they returned to [blaming] themselves and said [to each other], 'Indeed, you are the wrongdoers.' Then they reversed themselves, [saying], 'You have already known that these do not speak!' He said, 'Then do you worship instead of Allah that which does not benefit you at all or harm you? Uff to you and to what you worship instead of Allah. Then will you not use reason?'

This passage recounts the story of Prophet Abraham (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) challenging his people's idol worship. The jealousy and envy of the people towards Prophet Abraham led them to reject the truth and cling to their false gods. Their envy blinded them to the clear signs and evidence presented by Prophet Abraham, causing them to persist in their misguided beliefs.

Similarly, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the destructive nature of jealousy. Jealousy not only harms the one who harbors it but also creates a toxic environment within society. It breeds animosity, backbiting, and ill-will, leading to the breakdown of relationships and the erosion of trust.

To overcome jealousy, Muslims must strive to cultivate contentment and gratitude. We should recognize that every individual is blessed with their unique set of gifts and talents, and it is not productive to compare ourselves to others. Instead, we should focus on self-improvement, seeking the pleasure of Allah, and utilizing our own abilities to benefit society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to guard against jealousy. It highlights the destructive nature of envy and the importance of cultivating contentment and gratitude. By reflecting upon the Quranic verses that warn against jealousy, we can gain a deeper understanding of the consequences of this negative emotion. Let us strive to purify our hearts from jealousy and instead foster an environment of love, support, and unity within the Muslim community. May Allah protect us from the harms of jealousy and grant us the ability to sincerely rejoice in the blessings of others.