Hadith #4442

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ رَضِيَ بِقِسْمِ اللّهِ لَمْ يَحزَنْ على ما فاتَهُ۔

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of contentment and acceptance of the divine decree. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (radiya) "رَضِيَ", which means to be pleased, satisfied, or content. It signifies a state of inner peace and tranquility that comes from accepting and being grateful for whatever Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has decreed for us. This contentment should extend to all aspects of our lives, including the share allotted to us by Allah.

To understand the significance of this concept, we can turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (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 our limited knowledge and understanding may lead us to desire things that are not in our best interest. Therefore, it is essential to trust in Allah's wisdom and accept His decree with contentment.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 highlights the importance of seeking strength and sustenance from Allah, rather than being attached to worldly possessions or outcomes. When we are content with what Allah has decreed for us, we are more likely to experience a sense of inner strength and stability.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also reminds us of the Quranic concept of "Qadr" or predestination. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:22-23),

No disaster strikes upon the earth or among yourselves except that it is in a register before We bring it into being - indeed that, for Allah, is easy - In order that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

These verses remind us that everything that happens in our lives is part of Allah's divine plan. Therefore, we should not grieve over what we have missed out on, nor should we become arrogant or boastful over what we have been given.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims. It encourages us to cultivate a mindset of contentment and acceptance of Allah's decree. When we are pleased with our share allotted by Allah, we are able to find peace and happiness in every situation. This contentment protects us from the negative emotions of regret, envy, and dissatisfaction. It allows us to focus on the present moment and make the best of what we have, rather than dwelling on what we lack.

Moreover, being content with Allah's decree does not mean that we become passive or complacent. It does not imply that we should not strive for improvement or work towards achieving our goals. Instead, it means that we trust in Allah's plan and have faith that He will guide us towards what is best for us. It means that we accept the outcomes of our efforts, knowing that Allah's wisdom surpasses our limited understanding.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of contentment and acceptance of Allah's decree. By being pleased with our share allotted by Allah, we can find inner peace and protect ourselves from the negative emotions of regret and envy. This concept is supported by various Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of trusting in Allah's wisdom and accepting His plan. May Allah grant us the ability to be content with His decree and find tranquility in every situation.