Hadith #8453

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الفَقْرُ الفادِحُ أجْمَلُ مِنَ الغِنَى الفاضِحِ

which translates to

Extreme poverty is better than disgraceful affluence.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of contentment and the dangers of excessive wealth.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (al-faqr) "الفَقْرُ" refers to extreme poverty or destitution. It signifies a state of lacking material possessions or wealth. On the other hand, (al-ghina) "الغِنَى" refers to affluence or richness, indicating an abundance of worldly possessions and wealth. The word (al-fadhih) "الفادِحُ" means better or preferable, while (al-fadhih) "الفاضِحِ" means disgraceful or shameful.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and relying on Him for our needs, rather than being consumed by the pursuit of worldly wealth.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse reminds us to strike a balance between our worldly affairs and our spiritual aspirations. It encourages us to seek the blessings of the Hereafter while fulfilling our responsibilities in this world.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the spiritual and moral consequences of excessive wealth. While wealth itself is not inherently bad, it can lead to arrogance, greed, and a neglect of one's duties towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and society. Disgraceful affluence refers to the misuse of wealth, where one becomes consumed by material possessions and indulges in extravagant and sinful behavior.

Extreme poverty, on the other hand, can be a means of purification and a test of faith. It humbles individuals, reminding them of their dependence on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and their need for His mercy and sustenance. Poverty can also foster empathy and compassion towards those who are less fortunate, leading to acts of charity and kindness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly possessions. It encourages us to be content with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided for us and to use our wealth in a responsible and ethical manner. It reminds us that true success lies in the richness of our faith and character, rather than the abundance of our material possessions.

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

Extreme poverty is better than disgraceful affluence

emphasizes the importance of contentment and the dangers of excessive wealth. It encourages Muslims to strike a balance between their worldly affairs and their spiritual aspirations, reminding them of the spiritual and moral consequences of misusing wealth. By prioritizing their faith and character over material possessions, Muslims can attain true success and fulfillment in this life and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the path of righteousness and contentment.