Hadith #10062

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Al-malu la yanfa'uka hatta yufariqaka,

which translates to,

Wealth does not benefit you until it parts from you.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of material possessions and emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly wealth.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word "mal" refers to wealth or possessions, encompassing both material and financial assets. The term "yanfa'uka" means to benefit or be of use. And "yufariqaka" signifies parting or separation.

To understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse beautifully illustrates the temporary nature of wealth. Just as a plant grows and withers away, material possessions come and go. They may bring temporary pleasure and satisfaction, but ultimately they are transient and do not provide lasting benefit.

Another verse that complements the Hadith is found in Surah At-Tawbah, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 9:24)

Say, 'If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your relatives, wealth which you have obtained, commerce wherein you fear decline, and dwellings with which you are pleased are more beloved to you than Allah and His Messenger and jihad in His cause, then wait until Allah executes His command. And Allah does not guide the defiantly disobedient people.'

This verse highlights the importance of prioritizing our love and devotion to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) over worldly attachments. It reminds us that wealth, along with our relationships and possessions, should not take precedence over our faith and commitment to Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims of the need for detachment from material possessions. It encourages us to focus on the spiritual and eternal aspects of life rather than being consumed by the pursuit of wealth.

By recognizing that wealth is only beneficial when it is shared and used for the betterment of society, we can avoid becoming slaves to our possessions. This Hadith teaches us that true benefit lies in utilizing our wealth for charitable purposes, supporting those in need, and investing in the well-being of our communities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, understood the transient nature of wealth. He himself lived a simple and humble life, despite having access to vast resources. His detachment from material possessions allowed him to focus on matters of greater importance, such as seeking knowledge, establishing justice, and guiding the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that wealth is not inherently beneficial unless it is used wisely and shared with others. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and the well-being of our fellow Muslims over the accumulation of material possessions. By adopting a mindset of detachment and utilizing our wealth for the greater good, we can attain true benefit and fulfillment in this life and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the deeper meanings of this Hadith and the ability to act upon its teachings.