Hadith #4633

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, "المَسْئَلَةُ مِفْتاحُ الفَقْرِ۔" This translates to

Begging is the key to poverty.

To understand the connotation behind this statement, we must delve into the words used and explore the teachings of the Quran.

The word (mas'alah) "مَسْئَلَةُ" refers to the act of begging or seeking assistance from others. It implies a state of neediness and reliance on others for sustenance. The word (miftah) "مِفْتَاحُ" means key, symbolizing the means or access to something. And finally, (al-faqr) "الفَقْرِ" signifies poverty, a state of lacking material resources.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of self-sufficiency and discourages the act of begging. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (2:11-12)

And when they are told, 'Do not cause corruption on the earth,' they say, 'We are but reformers.' Unquestionably, it is they who are the corrupters, but they perceive it not

This verse highlights the negative consequences of relying on others instead of striving for self-sufficiency.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah states, (17:72)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring

This verse reminds us that relying on worldly possessions and seeking material wealth can distract us from the true provision that Allah has bestowed upon us.

Imam Ali's statement,

Begging is the key to poverty,

serves as a profound reminder for Muslims. It highlights the negative consequences of relying on others for sustenance and the importance of seeking self-sufficiency. Begging perpetuates a cycle of poverty, as it fosters dependency and hinders personal growth and development.

Instead, Islam encourages Muslims to strive for self-reliance and to utilize their skills and abilities to earn a livelihood. Allah says in Surah Al-Isra, (4:29)

And do not kill yourselves [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is to you ever Merciful

This verse emphasizes the importance of preserving one's dignity and avoiding actions that degrade oneself, such as begging.

Imam Ali's statement also highlights the spiritual aspect of poverty. While material poverty is a concern, spiritual poverty is equally important. Relying solely on material possessions can lead to a poverty of the soul, as it distracts us from our true purpose in life and our relationship with Allah. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid, (57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris

This verse serves as a reminder that worldly possessions are temporary and should not be the sole focus of our lives.

Imam Ali's impactful saying urges Muslims to reflect on their actions and strive for self-sufficiency, both materially and spiritually. It encourages us to seek knowledge, develop skills, and utilize our resources to improve our own lives and the lives of others. By doing so, we can break the cycle of poverty and cultivate a sense of self-worth and dignity.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's statement,

Begging is the key to poverty,

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to strive for self-sufficiency and avoid the pitfalls of dependency. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of self-reliance and the dangers of relying solely on material possessions. May Allah guide us all to seek His provision through lawful means and grant us the strength to overcome poverty, both material and spiritual.