Hadith #8775

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, "التقلل ولا التذلل", which translates to

Having less is all right, but being humiliated, never!

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of maintaining self-respect and dignity, even in times of adversity.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (at-taqallul) "التقلل" refers to having less or reducing one's material possessions. It signifies contentment and detachment from worldly possessions. On the other hand, the term (at-tadhallul) "التذلل" means being humiliated or debased. It refers to compromising one's self-respect and dignity for the sake of worldly gains or societal approval.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of contentment and detachment from worldly possessions in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:45)

And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah]

This verse highlights the virtue of humility and submission to Allah, rather than seeking validation or material gains from others.

Furthermore, the Quran encourages believers to prioritize their self-respect and dignity over worldly gains. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (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 true provision and blessings come from Allah, and we should not compromise our self-respect for temporary worldly gains.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to maintain their self-worth and dignity, even in the face of adversity. It teaches us that it is better to have less and maintain our honor, rather than compromising our principles and debasing ourselves for the sake of worldly gains.

This Hadith also highlights the wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He understood the importance of self-respect and dignity in Islam and conveyed this message to the Muslim ummah. His words serve as a guiding light for Muslims, reminding us to prioritize our spiritual well-being and moral values over material possessions.

The consequences of disregarding this Hadith can be detrimental to both individuals and society as a whole. When individuals compromise their self-respect and dignity, they become susceptible to exploitation and oppression. This can lead to a society where injustice and inequality prevail, as people are willing to sacrifice their principles for personal gain.

On the other hand, when individuals uphold their self-respect and dignity, they become a source of inspiration and strength for others. They set an example of integrity and righteousness, fostering a society based on justice and compassion. By adhering to the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith, Muslims can contribute to the betterment of society and create an environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Having less is all right, but being humiliated, never!

emphasizes the importance of maintaining self-respect and dignity in Islam. It encourages Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being and moral values over material possessions. By adhering to this teaching, Muslims can contribute to the creation of a just and compassionate society, where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to uphold our self-respect and dignity in all aspects of our lives.