Hadith #10083

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The worst wealth is that from which the right of Allah, the Glorified, is not given.

This profound statement highlights the importance of fulfilling the rights of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in our wealth and possessions.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (amwal) "أموال" refers to wealth or possessions. It encompasses all forms of material resources that we possess, such as money, property, and assets. The term (kharaj) "خرج" means to give or spend, specifically in the context of fulfilling obligations or rights. And finally, the phrase (haq Allah) "حق الله" refers to the right of Allah, which encompasses various forms of obligatory acts of worship and charitable deeds.

To comprehend the significance of fulfilling the right of Allah in our wealth, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:7),

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving the rights of Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) to the designated recipients, such as the near relatives, orphans, and travelers in need. It also highlights the need to avoid hoarding wealth among the rich, as it disrupts the equitable distribution of resources in society.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177),

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse emphasizes that true righteousness lies in belief in Allah and fulfilling His rights, which includes giving wealth to those in need, establishing prayer, giving zakah, fulfilling promises, and showing patience in times of difficulty. It highlights the importance of using our wealth for the betterment of society and fulfilling the rights of others.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that wealth is a blessing from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and should be used in a manner that pleases Him. Hoarding wealth and neglecting the rights of Allah, such as giving zakah, supporting the needy, and fulfilling other obligations, is considered the worst form of wealth.

When we fail to fulfill the rights of Allah in our wealth, it leads to negative consequences. It breeds greed, selfishness, and a lack of empathy towards those in need. It disrupts the balance and harmony in society, creating disparities between the rich and the poor. Moreover, it distances us from the teachings of Islam and the path of righteousness.

Conversely, when we fulfill the rights of Allah in our wealth, it brings about numerous benefits. It purifies our hearts from the love of material possessions and strengthens our faith. It fosters compassion, generosity, and social responsibility. It creates a just and equitable society where resources are shared and distributed fairly. Ultimately, it leads to the pleasure and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in this world and the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to fulfill the rights of Allah in their wealth. It urges us to use our resources for the betterment of society, to support the needy, and to fulfill our obligations towards Allah and His creation. By doing so, we not only attain the pleasure of Allah but also contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society. May Allah guide us all to fulfill His rights and bless us with wealth that is used in His obedience.