Hadith #2227

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "سَبَبُ الكَمْدِ الحَسَدُ۔" This can be translated as,

The cause of depression is jealousy.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom behind this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

To understand this Hadith, it is important to first examine the key words used. The word (kamdi) "كَمْدِ" refers to depression or sadness, while (hasad) "حَسَدُ" denotes jealousy. Jealousy is an emotion that arises when one desires what another person possesses, whether it be material possessions, talents, or blessings. It is a negative and destructive emotion that can lead to feelings of discontentment, bitterness, and even depression.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that highlight the detrimental effects of jealousy. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against envy and its consequences, stating, (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 blessings bestowed upon others are merely a test from Allah, and that we should not allow jealousy to cloud our perception of reality.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Falaq, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands us to seek refuge from the evil of the envious person, stating, (Quran 113:5)

And from the evil of an envier when he envies.

This verse highlights the harmful nature of jealousy and the negative impact it can have on both the envier and the one being envied.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of wisdom and knowledge, recognized the destructive nature of jealousy. He understood that jealousy not only harms the individual experiencing it but also leads to depression and sadness. When one constantly compares themselves to others and feels discontented with their own circumstances, it can have a profound impact on their mental and emotional well-being.

Jealousy creates a toxic cycle of negativity, as it prevents individuals from appreciating their own blessings and achievements. Instead of focusing on personal growth and self-improvement, the jealous person becomes consumed by resentment and bitterness. This constant comparison and desire for what others have can lead to a perpetual state of dissatisfaction, ultimately resulting in depression.

To overcome this destructive emotion, Muslims are encouraged to cultivate gratitude and contentment. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of being grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nahl, (Quran 16:18)

And if you should count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

By focusing on our own blessings and acknowledging the infinite mercy of Allah, we can combat jealousy and find solace in the knowledge that our own unique blessings are tailor-made for us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the detrimental effects of jealousy, which can lead to depression and sadness. Jealousy prevents us from appreciating our own blessings and can result in a perpetual state of dissatisfaction. By cultivating gratitude and contentment, we can overcome jealousy and find peace within ourselves. May Allah protect us from the destructive emotions of envy and grant us the ability to appreciate and be content with the blessings He has bestowed upon us.