Hadith #213

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Contentment is as good as estate, and goodness of moral character is as good as a blessing.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of two qualities: contentment (qana'ah) and good moral character (khuluq). Let us delve into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, contentment (qana'ah) refers to being satisfied and grateful with what one has, regardless of the quantity or quality. It is the opposite of greed and covetousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages contentment in numerous verses of the Quran. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152), Allah says,

So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.

This verse highlights the importance of gratitude and contentment, as they are intertwined. When we are content with what Allah has blessed us with, we are more likely to be grateful and remember Him.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us that contentment is a source of tranquility and peace. In Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28), Allah says,

Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.

When we are content, our hearts are at ease, and we find solace in the remembrance of Allah. This contentment allows us to focus on our spiritual growth and strengthens our relationship with Allah.

Secondly, good moral character (khuluq) refers to the virtuous qualities and ethical conduct that a person possesses. It encompasses traits such as honesty, kindness, patience, forgiveness, and humility. The Quran places great emphasis on the importance of good moral character. In Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah describes the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

The Prophet's exemplary character serves as a role model for all Muslims to strive towards.

Good moral character is not only pleasing to Allah, but it also has a positive impact on our relationships with others. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that the true measure of nobility and superiority lies in righteousness and good character, not in wealth, lineage, or worldly possessions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us that contentment and good moral character are invaluable assets. They bring about inner peace, strengthen our relationship with Allah, and enhance our interactions with others. When we are content, we are not consumed by the desire for material wealth and status, but rather focus on the blessings we already have. Similarly, when we possess good moral character, we become a source of blessings for those around us, spreading kindness, compassion, and positivity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the profound significance of contentment and good moral character. These qualities are not only praiseworthy in the eyes of Allah, but they also contribute to our overall well-being and the betterment of society. May Allah grant us the ability to cultivate contentment and develop good moral character, following the example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble Ahl al-Bayt.