Hadith #8030

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

رُبَّ مَغْبُوط بِرَجاء هُوَ داؤُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Many a person is envied [by others] for something which is [actually] his affliction.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its implications in the light of the Quran.

The word (maghbooth) "مَغْبُوط" in this Hadith refers to a person who is envied or resented by others. This envy arises from the perception that the person possesses something desirable or advantageous. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that what is envied by others is, in reality, a source of affliction or hardship for that person.

This Hadith reminds us of the transient nature of worldly possessions and the deceptive allure of material wealth and status. It teaches us that what may appear as a blessing to others can actually be a burden for the person who possesses it. This concept is beautifully elucidated in the Quran in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20:

(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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse emphasizes the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the illusion of their permanence. It cautions us against becoming attached to material wealth and highlights the ultimate insignificance of worldly achievements. Thus, the envy directed towards those who possess such temporary blessings is misguided, as they may be burdened by the responsibilities and challenges that come with them.

Furthermore, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to reflect on the true nature of afflictions and hardships. Often, we perceive difficulties as solely negative experiences, failing to recognize the hidden blessings and opportunities they may bring. The Quran beautifully captures this concept in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216:

(Quran 2:216)

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse reminds us that what we perceive as afflictions or hardships may, in fact, be blessings in disguise. They may serve as a means for our personal growth, purification, and spiritual elevation. Therefore, envying someone for their apparent blessings without considering the underlying challenges they face is a shortsighted perspective.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazing Hadith urges us to adopt a holistic view of life, recognizing that what may seem desirable to others may carry hidden burdens. It teaches us to be content with our own circumstances and to trust in the wisdom and decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us to focus on our own personal growth and spiritual development rather than being consumed by envy or resentment towards others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to reflect on the transient nature of worldly possessions and the deceptive allure of envy. It encourages us to adopt a balanced perspective, recognizing that what may be envied by others can actually be a source of affliction for the person who possesses it. By understanding the deeper meaning of this Hadith and reflecting upon the relevant Quranic verses, we can strive to cultivate contentment, gratitude, and a deeper understanding of the true nature of blessings and hardships in this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to comprehend these profound teachings and guide us on the path of righteousness.