Hadith #8224

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon Muhammad, his family, his companions, and the righteous successors after him.

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

أفْضَلُ الغِنى ما صينَ بِهِ العِرْضُ۔

This can be translated as,

The best of riches is that through which one's honor is secured.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ghina) "غِنى" in this Hadith refers to wealth or riches. It encompasses material possessions, financial resources, and worldly abundance. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the best form of wealth is that which safeguards one's honor and dignity. This implies that true richness lies not only in material possessions but also in maintaining one's integrity and reputation.

The Quran supports this concept of true wealth and honor in several verses. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 20:131)

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 the true provision from Allah is superior to the temporary allure of worldly possessions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that true nobility and honor are not determined by wealth or lineage but by righteousness and piety.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to prioritize our honor and integrity over material possessions. It reminds us that true richness lies in maintaining our dignity and upholding moral values. This does not mean that wealth is inherently bad or that poverty is virtuous. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of using wealth as a means to preserve our honor and contribute positively to society.

For example, if a person acquires wealth through dishonest means, their honor is compromised, and their riches become a source of shame rather than a blessing. On the other hand, if someone utilizes their wealth to support charitable causes, help those in need, and promote justice, their honor is preserved, and their riches become a means of attaining spiritual growth and reward.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautiful saying serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their character and integrity over the pursuit of material wealth. It encourages us to seek wealth through lawful means and to utilize it in ways that enhance our honor and benefit society. By doing so, we not only attain worldly success but also earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and secure our place in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best form of riches is that which safeguards our honor and integrity. It reminds us to prioritize character over material possessions and to utilize wealth in ways that benefit both ourselves and society. By adhering to these principles, we can attain true richness in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).