Hadith #2206

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Jealousy is the viler of the two depravities.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word "al-hasad" in Arabic refers to jealousy or envy. It is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what others possess, whether it be material possessions, talents, or blessings. This feeling of discontentment can lead to resentment, ill-will, and even harm towards others. The word "am" means "the" and "al-radhilatayn" refers to the two depravities or vices.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive nature of jealousy. In Surah Al-Nisa (4:54), Allah says,

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty? But we had already given the family of Abraham the Scripture and wisdom and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

This verse reminds us that jealousy stems from a lack of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon others by Allah. It is a rejection of His divine decree and a failure to recognize that all blessings come from Him.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) cautions against suspicion and envy, saying,

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 verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and ill feelings towards others. Jealousy leads to suspicion, backbiting, and even harm, which are all condemned in Islam.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the severity of jealousy compared to other vices. It is considered viler because it not only harms the one who harbors it but also affects the social fabric of a community. Jealousy breeds animosity, division, and a lack of unity among Muslims. It hinders personal growth, prevents genuine happiness, and creates an atmosphere of negativity.

Jealousy can manifest in various ways, such as feeling resentful towards someone's success, spreading rumors to tarnish their reputation, or even wishing harm upon them. Such actions are contrary to the teachings of Islam, which emphasize love, compassion, and cooperation among Muslims.

To overcome jealousy, Muslims are encouraged to cultivate gratitude and contentment. Instead of focusing on what others have, we should focus on our own blessings and strive to improve ourselves. We should celebrate the success of others and supplicate to Allah for our own well-being and prosperity. By doing so, we can foster a sense of unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the destructive nature of jealousy. It is a vice that not only harms the one who harbors it but also affects the social fabric of a community. The Quran provides guidance on overcoming jealousy through gratitude, contentment, and avoiding negative assumptions. As Muslims, we should strive to eradicate jealousy from our hearts and foster a spirit of unity, love, and cooperation among ourselves. May Allah protect us from the vices of jealousy and grant us the ability to celebrate the success of others.