Hadith #2067

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Greed does not increase sustenance, rather it debases one’s status.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of greed and its impact on an individual's status and character.

Let us delve deeper into the key words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (hiras) "حِرْصُ" refers to greed or excessive desire for wealth and possessions. It is the insatiable craving for more, without considering the consequences or the impact it has on one's spiritual and moral well-being. The word (rizq) "رِزْقِ" translates to sustenance, encompassing not only material wealth but also spiritual and emotional nourishment.

This Hadith emphasizes that greed does not lead to an increase in sustenance. In fact, it has the opposite effect of degrading one's status. Greed blinds individuals from recognizing the blessings and provisions that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has already bestowed upon them. It leads to discontentment, envy, and a constant desire for more, which ultimately results in a loss of gratitude and satisfaction.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And We have made some of you [people] as trial for others - will you have patience? And ever is your Lord, Seeing.

This verse highlights the purpose of trials and tests in this world. Greed can be seen as one of these trials, testing our patience and contentment with what Allah has decreed for us.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse reminds us to strike a balance between seeking the rewards of the Hereafter and fulfilling our responsibilities in this world. Greed leads to corruption and a neglect of our duties towards others, which is displeasing to Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to reflect on their intentions and desires. It encourages us to prioritize spiritual growth, gratitude, and contentment over the accumulation of material possessions. Greed not only harms our relationship with Allah, but it also damages our relationships with others. It breeds selfishness, envy, and a disregard for the well-being of our fellow human beings.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which is evident in this Hadith. His words serve as a beacon of guidance for Muslims, reminding us to strive for moderation, contentment, and selflessness. By recognizing the negative consequences of greed and its impact on our status, we can purify our hearts, strengthen our faith, and lead a more fulfilling and righteous life.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive nature of greed and grant us the ability to be content with His blessings. May we always strive to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the noble examples set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny. Ameen.