Hadith #3969

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Debt is one of the two bondages.

This thought-provoking Hadith of the Commander of the Faithful highlights the significance and seriousness of being in debt. To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word "debt" in Arabic is (دَيْن) "dayn", which refers to an obligation or a liability that one owes to another person. It can be a financial debt or a moral obligation. The word "one" is translated from the Arabic word (أحد) "ahad", which means one of two. And the word "bondages" is translated from the Arabic word (رِقَيْن) "riqayn", which signifies being in a state of bondage or servitude.

To shed light on the significance of debt, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:177)

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our obligations, including financial debts, as an essential aspect of faith. It reminds us that being in debt is not a trivial matter but a responsibility that must be fulfilled.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (17:34)

And fulfill the covenant. Indeed, the covenant is questioned about

This verse highlights the accountability we have for our commitments, including debts. It serves as a reminder that we will be questioned about how we fulfill our obligations in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement about debt being one of the two bondages carries profound implications. Firstly, it reminds us that being in debt can lead to a state of bondage, both financially and emotionally. Debt can restrict our freedom and limit our choices, causing stress and anxiety. It can also lead to strained relationships and a loss of peace of mind.

Secondly, this Hadith serves as a motivation for us to be cautious and responsible in our financial dealings. It encourages us to avoid unnecessary debts and to fulfill our obligations promptly. By doing so, we can free ourselves from the bondage of debt and ensure financial stability.

Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the consequences of being in debt. When we fail to fulfill our obligations, it can lead to legal disputes, damaged reputations, and even financial ruin. It can strain relationships and create a sense of dependency on others. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to be mindful of their financial responsibilities and strive to live within their means.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can draw valuable lessons for our lives as Muslims. It reminds us of the importance of financial responsibility, honesty, and integrity. It teaches us to avoid unnecessary debts and to fulfill our obligations promptly. It also encourages us to seek Allah's guidance and assistance in managing our finances wisely.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the significance of debt and its impact on our lives. It urges us to be cautious, responsible, and proactive in managing our financial affairs. By fulfilling our obligations and avoiding unnecessary debts, we can free ourselves from the bondage of debt and attain financial stability and peace of mind. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to fulfill our obligations and protect us from the burdens of debt.