Hadith #4386

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

نِعْمَ البَرَكَةُ سَعَةُ الرِّزقِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the immense value and significance of abundant sustenance as a great blessing from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us delve into the exegesis of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (barakah) "بركة" in Arabic refers to divine blessings and abundance. It signifies an increase in goodness, prosperity, and spiritual growth. It is a state of being that brings about positive outcomes and blessings in various aspects of life. The word (saa'ah) "سعة" means spaciousness or abundance, particularly in relation to sustenance or provision.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking His blessings and the abundant sustenance He provides. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:29), Allah says,

O you who have believed, if you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion and will remove from you your misdeeds and forgive you. And Allah is the possessor of great bounty.

This verse highlights that by fearing Allah and seeking His blessings, believers are granted a criterion to distinguish between right and wrong, and their sins are forgiven.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse encourages believers to seek the blessings of the Hereafter while not neglecting their share of the worldly provisions. It emphasizes the importance of utilizing the blessings bestowed by Allah in a righteous manner and avoiding corruption.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of abundant sustenance as a blessing from Allah. It reminds us that having an ample provision is a manifestation of Allah's favor upon us. This blessing encompasses not only material wealth but also encompasses spiritual, emotional, and intellectual well-being. It is a comprehensive blessing that encompasses all aspects of our lives.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and contentment. When we recognize the abundance of sustenance bestowed upon us by Allah, we should express gratitude and contentment with what we have. Gratitude is a fundamental aspect of faith, as Allah says in Surah Ibrahim (14:7),

And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can understand that the abundance of sustenance is not solely measured by material possessions, but rather by the contentment and gratitude we have in our hearts. It is a blessing that allows us to fulfill our needs and the needs of others, enabling us to contribute positively to society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the immense value and significance of abundant sustenance as a blessing from Allah. It encourages us to seek His blessings, express gratitude, and utilize our provisions in a righteous manner. May Allah grant us all the blessings of abundant sustenance and enable us to be grateful and content with what He has bestowed upon us.