Hadith #2076

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and upon his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الحِرْصُ ذُلٌّ، وعَناءٌ۔" This Hadith can be translated as,

Greed is [a trait that leads to] disgrace and suffering.

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

The word (al-hirsu) "الحِرْصُ" in this Hadith refers to greed, a strong desire to possess or acquire more than what is necessary or rightful. Greed is a negative trait that stems from a lack of contentment and gratitude. It is a characteristic that leads to disgrace and suffering, as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) has wisely stated.

The Quran provides us with several verses that emphasize the dangers and consequences of greed. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns the believers by saying,

And let not those who [greedily] withhold what Allah has given them of His bounty ever think that it is better for them. Rather, it is worse for them. Their necks will be encircled by what they withheld on the Day of Resurrection.

This verse highlights the punishment that awaits those who hoard their wealth out of greed, thinking that it will bring them more benefit. In reality, their actions will lead to their own downfall and humiliation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:180), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the consequences of greed by saying,

And let not those who [greedily] withhold what Allah has given them of His bounty ever think that it is better for them. Rather, it is worse for them. Their necks will be encircled by what they withheld on the Day of Resurrection.

This verse highlights the punishment that awaits those who hoard their wealth out of greed, thinking that it will bring them more benefit. In reality, their actions will lead to their own downfall and humiliation.

Greed not only leads to disgrace and suffering in the Hereafter, but it also has negative consequences in this worldly life. Greed blinds individuals from recognizing the blessings they already possess and leads them to constantly seek more, often at the expense of others. This insatiable desire for more can cause individuals to engage in unethical and unjust practices, harming themselves and those around them.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, warns us about the detrimental effects of greed. By highlighting the disgrace and suffering that greed brings, he urges us to cultivate contentment and gratitude in our hearts. Contentment is a virtue that allows us to appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to be satisfied with what we have, rather than constantly yearning for more.

When we are content and grateful, we are able to find peace and tranquility in our lives. We are not burdened by the constant pursuit of material possessions and wealth. Instead, we focus on nurturing our spiritual growth and building meaningful relationships with others. Contentment enables us to prioritize our values and align our actions with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to guard against the destructive trait of greed. By recognizing the consequences of greed, both in this world and the Hereafter, we are encouraged to cultivate contentment and gratitude in our hearts. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the pitfalls of greed and guide us towards a life of righteousness and moderation.