Hadith #2109

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ما أجْلَبَ الحِرْصَ لِلنَّصَبِ۔

This can be translated as,

How much agony is brought about by greed!

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental consequences of greed and the suffering it can cause.

The word (ajlab) "أجْلَبَ" in this Hadith refers to the intense and overwhelming nature of greed. It signifies the all-consuming desire for more, the insatiable hunger for material possessions or power. Greed blinds individuals to the consequences of their actions and leads them to engage in unethical behavior, causing harm to themselves and others.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the dangers of greed in several verses. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah says,

And those who, before them, had homes (in Medina) and had adopted the Faith, love those who emigrate to them, and have no jealousy in their breasts for that which they have been given (from the booty of Bani An-Nadir), and give them (emigrants) preference over themselves, even though they were in need of that. And whosoever is saved from his own covetousness, such are they who will be the successful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of selflessness and generosity, and it serves as a reminder that those who overcome their greed are the ones who will attain success. Greed, on the other hand, leads to envy, jealousy, and a constant desire for more, which ultimately causes distress and discontentment.

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188), Allah says,

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse warns against the unjust acquisition of wealth and the exploitation of others for personal gain. Greed can lead individuals to engage in corrupt practices, causing harm to society and undermining justice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their own actions and intentions. Greed can manifest in various forms, such as an insatiable desire for wealth, power, or recognition. It can lead individuals to engage in dishonesty, exploitation, and unethical behavior. Greed blinds individuals to the needs and rights of others, causing suffering and injustice.

Moreover, greed can also have severe consequences on an individual's spiritual well-being. In Surah At-Takathur (102:1-2), Allah says,

Competition in [worldly] increase diverts you until you visit the graveyards.

This verse highlights how the pursuit of worldly possessions and material wealth can distract individuals from their ultimate purpose in life, which is to worship Allah and seek His pleasure. Greed can consume a person's heart and soul, leaving little room for spiritual growth and connection with Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautiful Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the dangers of greed and to strive for contentment and gratitude. By recognizing the detrimental consequences of greed, we can work towards purifying our hearts and cultivating a sense of selflessness and generosity. Let us reflect on our own actions and intentions, and strive to overcome the destructive nature of greed, seeking instead the pleasure of Allah and the well-being of our fellow human beings. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the harms of greed.