Hadith #4373

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

رَضِيَ بِالحِْرمانِ طالِبُ الرِّزقِ مِنَ اللِّئامِ۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as,

He who seeks sustenance from the wicked has accepted deprivation.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (radiya) "رَضِيَ" in the Hadith means "to accept" or

to be content with.

It signifies a state of satisfaction and approval. The word (al-hirman) "الحِْرمانِ" refers to the wicked or the sinful ones. It encompasses those who engage in unlawful and immoral activities. The word (talib) "طالِبُ" means "one who seeks" or "one who pursues." Finally, the word (ar-riqq) "الرِّزقِ" refers to sustenance or provisions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the consequences of seeking sustenance from the wicked. He is cautioning Muslims against relying on ill-gotten gains or engaging in unethical means to acquire their livelihood. By seeking sustenance from the wicked, one not only compromises their moral integrity but also accepts deprivation in the long run.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds support in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of earning a lawful livelihood and refraining from engaging in sinful activities.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:172)

O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.

This verse emphasizes the importance of consuming lawful provisions and being grateful to Allah for His blessings.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 4:29)

O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent.

This verse prohibits Muslims from engaging in unlawful financial transactions and emphasizes the importance of conducting business in a fair and just manner.

By seeking sustenance from the wicked, one not only compromises their moral integrity but also risks falling into the trap of unlawful earnings. Such earnings are not blessed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and are devoid of barakah (blessings). They may provide temporary material gains but ultimately lead to deprivation in various aspects of life, including spiritual, emotional, and social well-being.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their moral values and principles over temporary gains. It encourages us to seek sustenance through lawful means, even if it means facing challenges or hardships. By doing so, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of seeking sustenance from lawful sources and refraining from relying on the wicked or engaging in unethical means. It urges us to prioritize our moral integrity and trust in Allah's provisions, even in the face of difficulties. By doing so, we ensure that our sustenance is blessed and that we attain true prosperity in this life and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us lawful provisions.