Hadith #5973

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

All praise is due to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the Lord of all worlds, and may His blessings be upon His final Messenger, Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the virtue of moderation in eating and highlights its positive impact on both the soul and physical health. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its connotation in light of the Quran.

The word (qillatu) "قِلَّةُ" in the Hadith refers to "eating less" or

moderation in food consumption.

This moderation is not only beneficial for the body but also holds great honor for the soul. It signifies self-control and discipline, which are qualities highly regarded in Islam.

The term (al-ghidha) "الغِذاءِ" in the Hadith refers to "food." By emphasizing the importance of eating less, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of avoiding excessive indulgence in worldly desires. This moderation in food consumption helps in maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

The phrase (akramu linnafs) "أكْرَمُ لِلنَّفْسِ" in the Hadith means

more honorable for the soul.

It implies that restraining oneself from overeating is a noble and virtuous act. It demonstrates self-discipline and control over one's desires, which elevates the status of the soul in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The phrase (wadwamu lissiha) "وأدْوَمُ لِلصِّحَّةِ" in the Hadith means

makes good health last longer.

This highlights the positive impact of moderation in food consumption on physical health. Overeating can lead to various health issues, while eating in moderation ensures the well-being and longevity of the body.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the wisdom behind this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31),

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

This verse emphasizes the importance of moderation in all aspects of life, including eating and drinking. It reminds Muslims to avoid excessiveness and to maintain a balanced approach in fulfilling their needs.

Another verse that aligns with the teachings of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-A'raf (7:32), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, 'Who has forbidden the adornment of Allah which He has produced for His servants and the good [lawful] things of provision?' Say, 'They are for those who believe during the worldly life but exclusively for them on the Day of Resurrection.' Thus do We detail the verses for a people who know.

This verse reminds Muslims that the blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) are meant to be enjoyed within the boundaries of what is permissible and in moderation. It encourages believers to appreciate the lawful provisions of Allah and to consume them in a manner that is pleasing to Him.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to adopt a balanced and moderate approach in their daily lives. By practicing moderation in food consumption, we not only maintain good physical health but also cultivate self-discipline and honor for our souls. It teaches us to prioritize our spiritual well-being and to avoid excessive indulgence in worldly desires.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to reflect on the importance of self-control and discipline in all aspects of our lives. By restraining ourselves from overeating, we develop a sense of mastery over our desires, which ultimately strengthens our character and brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the virtue of moderation in eating and highlights its positive impact on both the soul and physical health. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of balance and moderation in all aspects of life. As Muslims, let us strive to embody the teachings of this Hadith and maintain a balanced approach in our daily lives, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all that we do.