Hadith #4424

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الرِّضَا يَنْفِي الحَزَنَ" which translates to "Satisfaction dispels sadness." This impactful Hadith holds deep wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their pursuit of contentment and happiness in life.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (Ar-Rida) "الرِّضَا" refers to satisfaction, contentment, and acceptance. It signifies a state of inner peace and tranquility that comes from being pleased with the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a state of being grateful and appreciative of what one has, rather than constantly desiring more.

The word (Yanfi) "يَنْفِي" means to dispel, remove, or eliminate. It implies that satisfaction has the power to eradicate or overcome sadness, grief, and discontentment. It is a transformative force that can uplift one's spirit and bring about a sense of joy and fulfillment.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28),

Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah, hearts are assured.

This verse highlights the importance of finding contentment and peace through the remembrance of Allah. When we are satisfied with the blessings bestowed upon us and constantly remember Allah, our hearts are put at ease, and sadness is dispelled.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah At-Tawbah (9:59), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And among them are those who criticize you concerning the [distribution of] charities. If they are given from them, they approve; but if they are not given from them, at once they become angry.

This verse highlights the importance of being satisfied and content with the decisions made by those in authority. When we are constantly seeking more and are never satisfied, we open the door to sadness and discontentment.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us the profound impact that satisfaction can have on our emotional well-being. When we learn to be content with what we have and accept the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we free ourselves from the shackles of sadness and grief. This does not mean that we should not strive for improvement or work towards our goals, but rather it emphasizes the importance of finding peace and gratitude in the present moment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the power of satisfaction in dispelling sadness. By cultivating a mindset of contentment and gratitude, we can experience true happiness and fulfillment in our lives. Let us strive to embody this teaching in our daily lives and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through our actions and attitudes.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to find satisfaction and contentment in His decree, and may He remove sadness and grief from our hearts. Ameen.