Hadith #7283

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises the intelligent ones among us to be cautious and protect themselves from the intoxication of various aspects of life. The Imam highlights five specific types of intoxication: the intoxication of wealth, power, knowledge, praise, and youth. Each of these intoxications has its own detrimental effects on the intellect and dignity of an individual.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

1. The intoxication of wealth (سُكْرِ المالِ): This refers to the allure and obsession with material possessions and worldly wealth. The Quran warns us about the dangers of becoming attached to worldly possessions and neglecting our spiritual development. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Taghabun (64:15),

Your wealth and your children are but a trial, and Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that wealth is a test from Allah, and we should not allow it to intoxicate us and distract us from our ultimate purpose in life.

2. The intoxication of power (سُكْرِ القُدْرَةِ): This refers to the intoxicating effect of authority and control over others. Power has the potential to corrupt individuals and lead them astray from the path of justice and righteousness. The Quran emphasizes the importance of using power and authority responsibly and for the betterment of society. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:30), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the responsibility that comes with power,

And [mention, O Muhammad], when your Lord said to the angels, 'Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority.' They said, 'Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?' Allah said, 'Indeed, I know that which you do not know.'

3. The intoxication of knowledge (سُكْرِ العِلْمِ): This refers to the arrogance and pride that can arise from acquiring knowledge. Knowledge is a blessing from Allah, and it should be sought with humility and used for the betterment of oneself and others. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Qasas (28:56),

Indeed, [O Muhammad], you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse reminds us that true guidance comes from Allah alone, and knowledge should humble us rather than make us arrogant.

4. The intoxication of praise (سُكْرِ المَدْحِ): This refers to the intoxicating effect of being praised and admired by others. When one becomes addicted to praise, it can lead to arrogance and a false sense of superiority. The Quran warns us against seeking praise from others and emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's pleasure alone. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) teaches us to supplicate,

Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or erred. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory over the disbelieving people.

5. The intoxication of youth (سُكْرِ الشَّبابِ): This refers to the recklessness and heedlessness that can accompany the vigor and energy of youth. The Quran advises the youth to use their strength and vitality in a responsible and righteous manner. In Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the importance of seeking guidance and protection from Him,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the foul odors that accompany these intoxications. These foul odors represent the negative consequences that arise from indulging in these intoxications. They take away intelligence and reduce one's dignity, leading to moral and spiritual decline.

In conclusion, this profound hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to be vigilant and protect themselves from the intoxications of wealth, power, knowledge, praise, and youth. By understanding the detrimental effects of these intoxications and seeking guidance from the Quran, we can strive to maintain our intellect and dignity, and lead a balanced and righteous life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to overcome these intoxications and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives.