Hadith #11076

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

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

مِنْ تَوْفِيقِ الحُرِّ (المَرءِ) اِكْتِسَابُهُ المَالَ مِنْ حِلِّهِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of earning wealth through legitimate means as a part of the success of a freeman or a person.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (tawfiq) "تَوْفِيقِ" refers to divine guidance and assistance. It is through the grace and favor of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) that a person is granted the ability to achieve success in various aspects of life, including acquiring wealth. The word (hurr) "حُرِّ" can be translated as a freeman or a person who is free from enslavement. It signifies an individual who possesses independence and autonomy.

The Hadith highlights the importance of earning wealth through legitimate means, or (min hillihi) "مِنْ حِلِّهِ". This phrase emphasizes the significance of conducting business and engaging in financial transactions that are in accordance with the principles and guidelines set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the Quran. It encourages Muslims to refrain from any form of dishonesty, fraud, or exploitation in their pursuit of wealth.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:29)

O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent

This verse emphasizes the importance of conducting business transactions fairly and justly, without infringing upon the rights of others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (17:34)

And do not approach the property of an orphan, except in the way that is best, until he reaches maturity

This verse highlights the importance of protecting the rights of vulnerable individuals, such as orphans, and refraining from any form of exploitation or unjust acquisition of their wealth.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us that the acquisition of wealth through legitimate means is not only a means of sustenance but also a reflection of one's character and integrity. It encourages Muslims to engage in lawful business practices, adhering to the principles of honesty, fairness, and justice. By doing so, they not only attain material success but also earn the pleasure and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this principle throughout his life. His knowledge, wisdom, and impeccable character guided his actions in all aspects of life, including his financial dealings. He was known for his honesty, integrity, and fairness in business transactions, setting an example for Muslims to follow.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of earning wealth through legitimate means as a part of a person's success. It reminds Muslims to conduct their financial affairs in accordance with the principles and guidelines set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the Quran. By doing so, they not only attain material success but also earn the pleasure and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the tawfiq to earn wealth through legitimate means and bless our endeavors.