Hadith #2235

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns Muslims against two destructive traits: jealousy and hatred. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, advises Muslims to refrain from these negative emotions as they have detrimental effects on one's faith and the unity of the community.

The word (hasad) "حَسَدَ" in the Hadith refers to jealousy or envy. Jealousy is a feeling of resentment or discontent towards someone else's possessions, qualities, or achievements. It is a destructive emotion that eats away at a person's faith, just as fire consumes firewood. This analogy emphasizes the gradual erosion of faith caused by jealousy. Jealousy not only harms the individual harboring it, but it also creates division and animosity within the Muslim community.

The Quran provides guidance on the destructive nature of jealousy and its consequences. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 Muslims not to envy the worldly possessions or blessings of others, as they are merely temporary tests from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Instead, believers should focus on their own provisions and trust in the wisdom of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The second part of the Hadith advises against hatred, using the word (baghda) "بَغْضَ". Hatred is a strong feeling of dislike or animosity towards someone. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that hatred is a severe act that severs the bonds of faith and unity within the Muslim community. Hatred creates divisions, fosters animosity, and leads to conflicts that can harm the overall well-being of the ummah.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of unity and brotherhood among Muslims. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 49:10)

Indeed, the believers are brothers. So make peace between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships within the Muslim community and resolving conflicts through peaceful means. Hatred disrupts this unity and weakens the fabric of the ummah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate positive emotions and attitudes towards one another. Jealousy and hatred not only harm the individual's faith but also have wider implications for the unity and strength of the Muslim community. By avoiding jealousy and hatred, Muslims can foster an environment of love, compassion, and unity, which is essential for the progress and prosperity of the ummah.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should strive to purify their hearts from jealousy and hatred. They should celebrate the success and blessings of others, rather than feeling envious. Moreover, they should actively work towards building strong bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, resolving conflicts, and promoting unity within the ummah. By doing so, Muslims can strengthen their faith, promote a harmonious society, and fulfill the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the noble teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the strength to overcome negative emotions.