Hadith #8852

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "القناعة أفضل الغنائين" which translates to

Contentment is the better of the two riches.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of contentment and its superiority over material wealth.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (al-qana'ah) "القناعة" refers to contentment or satisfaction with what one possesses, regardless of its quantity or quality. It is the state of being pleased and grateful with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us. (afdal) "أفضل" means better or superior, indicating that contentment is of higher value and importance. (al-ghina'in) "الغنائين" refers to riches or wealth, encompassing both material and spiritual abundance.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the significance of contentment and its superiority over material possessions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse reminds us that the best provision for our journey in this world is not material wealth, but rather piety and consciousness of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Tawbah (9:59), 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 contentment by illustrating how some individuals become discontented and resentful when they are not given from the wealth of others. It serves as a reminder that true richness lies in being content with what Allah has blessed us with, rather than desiring what others possess.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement encourages us to prioritize contentment over material wealth. It reminds us that true richness does not lie in accumulating possessions, but rather in finding satisfaction and gratitude in what we already have. Contentment brings inner peace and tranquility, freeing us from the constant pursuit of material gain and the anxieties that come with it.

By practicing contentment, we detach ourselves from the materialistic world and focus on the spiritual aspects of our lives. We learn to appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), whether they are big or small. Contentment allows us to find joy and happiness in the simplest of things, fostering a sense of gratitude and contentment in our hearts.

Moreover, contentment protects us from the negative consequences of greed and envy. When we are content with what we have, we are less likely to covet what others possess, which leads to jealousy and dissatisfaction. Contentment helps us maintain healthy relationships with others, as we are not consumed by a constant desire for more.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Contentment is the better of the two riches

serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize contentment over material wealth. It encourages us to find satisfaction and gratitude in what Allah has blessed us with, regardless of its quantity or quality. By practicing contentment, we attain inner peace, protect ourselves from the negative consequences of greed, and foster healthy relationships with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate contentment in our hearts and lives.