Hadith #11004

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the virtues of humility and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) exhibited by both the wealthy and the poor. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (tawāḍuʿa) "تَواضُعَ" refers to humility, modesty, and humbleness. It signifies the act of lowering oneself in front of others, especially those who are less fortunate. The wealthy, who possess material wealth and abundance, are encouraged to show humility towards the poor, recognizing that true wealth lies in the favor and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This humility is not only an act of kindness but also a means to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The word (aghniā') "أغْنياءِ" refers to the wealthy or the rich. It encompasses those who have been blessed with worldly possessions and financial resources. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of their humility towards the poor, recognizing that their wealth is a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and should be utilized for the betterment of society. This humility is a reflection of their gratitude towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and their acknowledgment that true wealth lies in the hereafter.

On the other hand, the word (fuqarā') "فُقَراءِ" refers to the poor or the needy. These individuals lack material wealth and are dependent on the assistance of others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) praises their pride and self-reliance in front of the wealthy. This pride is not rooted in arrogance or superiority, but rather in their trust and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They understand that their sustenance and well-being ultimately come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and they place their complete reliance on Him.

The Quranic verses beautifully support the teachings of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and recognizing the true worth of individuals. It reminds us that true nobility lies in righteousness, piety, and good character, rather than in material wealth or social status. The wealthy should not look down upon the poor, but rather treat them with respect and humility, acknowledging their shared humanity and the potential for goodness in every individual.

Another relevant verse is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of trust and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of our lives. The poor, who lack material resources, are encouraged to place their complete trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for their sustenance and well-being. They understand that their reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate source of strength and support.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the virtues of humility and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds the wealthy to show humility towards the poor, recognizing that true wealth lies in the favor of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the betterment of society. It also encourages the poor to have pride and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), knowing that their sustenance and well-being are in His hands. By embodying these qualities, Muslims can foster a society that is characterized by compassion, justice, and unity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to implement these teachings in our lives.