Hadith #2231

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 the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, compares jealousy to rust that eats away at iron until it completely destroys it. Similarly, jealousy has the potential to corrode the body and soul of an individual until it leads to their ultimate destruction.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (sadā) "صَدَأَ" refers to rust, which is a form of corrosion that gradually weakens and deteriorates the surface of iron. The word (hasad) "حَسَدُ" refers to jealousy, which is an intense feeling of resentment or envy towards someone else's possessions, qualities, or achievements. The word (yukmidu) "يُكْمِدُ" means to constrict or compress, implying that jealousy tightens its grip on the body and soul of an individual, causing immense harm.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive nature of jealousy. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This ayah emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and backbiting, which are often fueled by jealousy. Just as one would detest consuming the flesh of their deceased brother, jealousy should be detested and avoided due to its destructive consequences.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Falaq (113:5), Allah says,

From the evil of an envier when he envies.

This ayah highlights the evil nature of envy and the harm it can cause. Jealousy not only harms the one who is envied but also affects the envier themselves, as it eats away at their own well-being and contentment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) comparison of jealousy to rust provides a powerful visual image of the gradual destruction caused by this negative emotion. Just as rust slowly eats away at iron, jealousy corrodes the body and soul of an individual. Jealousy can manifest in various forms, such as resentment, bitterness, and ill-wishing towards others. It consumes one's thoughts, leading to negative assumptions, backbiting, and even harmful actions.

The consequences of jealousy are far-reaching. It not only damages relationships and creates divisions among Muslims but also harms the jealous individual themselves. Jealousy breeds discontentment, ingratitude, and a lack of appreciation for one's own blessings. It blinds individuals to their own strengths and accomplishments, as their focus becomes solely fixated on what others possess or achieve. This constant comparison and desire for what others have can lead to a perpetual state of unhappiness and dissatisfaction.

Moreover, jealousy can lead to harmful actions and behaviors. It can drive individuals to undermine and harm those they are jealous of, whether through spreading rumors, sabotaging their success, or even wishing ill upon them. Such actions not only violate the principles of Islam but also contribute to a toxic and divisive society.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of cultivating contentment and gratitude in their hearts. Rather than being consumed by jealousy, we should focus on our own personal growth and strive to develop a positive mindset. Islam encourages us to celebrate the success and blessings of others, as this fosters unity and harmony within the community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the destructive nature of jealousy. Just as rust corrodes iron, jealousy corrodes the body and soul of an individual, leading to their ultimate destruction. Muslims are urged to guard against jealousy, cultivate contentment, and celebrate the success of others. By doing so, we can foster a society that is united, harmonious, and free from the harmful effects of jealousy. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive nature of jealousy and grant us the ability to appreciate and celebrate the blessings of others.