Hadith #2229

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The worst thing that can accompany a person is jealousy.

This Hadith highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and warns Muslims against its detrimental effects on both individuals and society.

The word "sharr" in Arabic refers to something evil or harmful, and "sahiba" means to accompany or be with someone. The term "al-mar" refers to a person, and "al-hasad" translates to jealousy. Jealousy is an intense feeling of resentment or envy towards someone who possesses something desirable, such as wealth, beauty, or success.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the negative consequences of jealousy and the importance of avoiding it. For example, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse illustrates the story of Qarun, who was blessed with immense wealth but became arrogant and oppressive towards others. His people warned him against boasting about his riches, as it was a manifestation of jealousy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) disapproved of Qarun's behavior, highlighting the negative consequences of jealousy and the importance of humility.

Another verse that sheds light on the destructive nature of jealousy is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and backbiting, which are often fueled by jealousy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) compares backbiting to eating the flesh of one's brother, highlighting its repulsiveness. Jealousy can lead to harmful actions such as spreading rumors, undermining others' achievements, or seeking to harm them in various ways.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of jealousy and its destructive consequences. Jealousy not only harms the person who harbors it but also damages relationships, breeds animosity, and hinders personal growth. It is a negative trait that contradicts the teachings of Islam, which emphasize unity, cooperation, and contentment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight. Through this Hadith, he highlights the importance of purifying one's heart from jealousy and cultivating positive qualities such as gratitude, contentment, and goodwill towards others.

As Muslims, we should strive to overcome jealousy by focusing on our own blessings and achievements, and by sincerely celebrating the successes of others. We should seek refuge in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) from the destructive nature of jealousy and ask Him to purify our hearts from such negative emotions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be aware of the harmful effects of jealousy. It urges us to purify our hearts from this destructive trait and instead cultivate positive qualities such as gratitude, contentment, and goodwill towards others. By doing so, we can foster a harmonious and supportive community, in line with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the evils of jealousy and guide us on the path of righteousness.