Hadith #8238

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

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

غُرُورُ الغِنى يُوجِبُ الأشَرَ۔

This can be translated as,

The deception of wealth leads to insolence.

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

The word (ghuroor) "غُرُورُ" refers to the delusion or deception that wealth can create. It is the false sense of superiority and arrogance that can arise from material possessions. The word (al-ghina) "الغِنى" means wealth or affluence, signifying the abundance of worldly possessions. And (al-ashar) "الأشَرَ" refers to insolence, arrogance, or wickedness that stems from this delusion.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that caution against the dangers of wealth and its potential to lead one astray. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns, (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 enjoyment and splendor of worldly possessions are merely a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a means to evaluate our gratitude, humility, and righteousness. However, if one becomes deluded by their wealth, they may lose sight of the true purpose of life and become arrogant and insolent.

Another verse in Surah Al-Hadid emphasizes the transient nature of worldly possessions, stating, (Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse reminds us that the allure of wealth and its accompanying adornments are temporary and fleeting. Just as a plant withers away after a brief period of growth, so too does the wealth of this world. If one becomes deceived by the temporary nature of wealth, they may lose sight of the eternal rewards that await them in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the consequences of falling into the deception of wealth. When one becomes attached to their material possessions, they may become arrogant and insolent towards others. They may forget the importance of humility, compassion, and generosity, which are qualities highly valued in Islam.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to remain grounded and humble, regardless of their financial status. It encourages us to prioritize the pursuit of spiritual wealth over material wealth. True richness lies in the contentment of the heart, the strength of faith, and the righteousness of actions.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should ask ourselves: Are we allowing our wealth to deceive us? Are we becoming arrogant and insolent due to our material possessions? It is essential to constantly evaluate our intentions and actions, ensuring that we do not fall into the trap of worldly delusions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of wealth and its potential to lead one astray. It urges Muslims to remain humble, compassionate, and generous, regardless of their financial status. By prioritizing spiritual wealth over material wealth, we can guard ourselves against the deception of wealth and strive for true richness in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the allure of worldly possessions.