Hadith #10037

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

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

The best wealth is that which has the best effect upon you.

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

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (afdal) "أفْضَلُ" means the best or the most superior. (al-amwal) "الأمْوالِ" refers to wealth or possessions. (ahsanuha) "أحْسَنُها" means that which is best or most excellent. And finally, (atharan 'alayk) "آثَراً عَلَيْكَ" translates to having the best effect upon you.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of using wealth in a righteous manner and for the benefit of others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 3:92)

You will never attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love. And whatever you spend - indeed, Allah is Knowing of it

This verse highlights the concept of giving from one's best wealth, which aligns with the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

Furthermore, the Quran encourages believers to use their wealth for the betterment of society and to help those in need. In Surah Al-Hashr, Allah says, (Quran 59:9)

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., the Prophet's city of Medina] and [adopted] faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful

This verse emphasizes the virtue of selflessness and giving preference to others over oneself, which is in line with the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the importance of the impact that wealth has on an individual. It is not merely the quantity of wealth that matters, but rather the positive influence it has on one's character, actions, and relationships. True wealth lies in using our possessions to bring about positive change in ourselves and others, to alleviate the suffering of those in need, and to promote justice and equality in society.

For example, if a person possesses great wealth but uses it solely for personal gain, without considering the welfare of others, their wealth becomes a burden rather than a blessing. On the other hand, if one utilizes their wealth to support charitable causes, to provide for their family, and to help those less fortunate, their wealth becomes a means of righteousness and a source of blessings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that material possessions should not be an end in themselves, but rather a means to achieve spiritual growth and societal well-being. It encourages Muslims to evaluate their relationship with wealth and to strive for a balance between material prosperity and spiritual enrichment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best wealth is not measured by its quantity, but by the positive impact it has on our lives and the lives of others. It reminds us to use our wealth in a righteous and beneficial manner, in accordance with the teachings of the Quran. By doing so, we can attain true prosperity and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to understand and implement the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives.