Hadith #3817

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he eloquently states,

How many a person who possesses grandeur has this world abased!

This statement holds a deep meaning and provides us with a valuable insight into the nature of worldly possessions and the true measure of greatness in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (ubbaht) "أُبَّهَة" refers to grandeur, magnificence, or splendor. It signifies a state of being esteemed, respected, and revered by others. The word (ja'alat) "جَعَلَتْ" means to make or cause something to be. And finally, the word (haqiran) "حَقِيرًا" translates to abased, lowly, or insignificant.

To comprehend the enlightening message of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the true measure of greatness. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (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 highlights the transitory nature of worldly grandeur and emphasizes that it is merely a means of amusement, adornment, and competition. The possessions and status that we may consider as a measure of greatness in this world are temporary and will eventually fade away. The true measure of greatness lies in one's character, piety, and devotion to Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us, (28:51)

And We will surely cause them to taste the nearer punishment short of the greater punishment that perhaps they will repent.

This verse serves as a reminder that the trials and tribulations of this world are a means to humble us and redirect our focus towards the eternal life to come. It is through these hardships that we are reminded of the insignificance of worldly possessions and the importance of seeking the pleasure of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in this Hadith serves as a profound reflection on the nature of worldly grandeur. He reminds us that no matter how esteemed or respected one may be in the eyes of society, these worldly possessions and status hold no true value in the sight of Allah. The true measure of greatness lies in one's humility, piety, and devotion to Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified this understanding of greatness through his immense knowledge, wisdom, and devotion to Allah. His humility and selflessness were unparalleled, and he always prioritized the pleasure of Allah over worldly possessions. Despite his immense grandeur and status, he remained grounded and recognized the true insignificance of worldly pursuits.

As Muslims, we should reflect on this Hadith and strive to detach ourselves from the allure of worldly possessions. We should focus on cultivating our character, seeking knowledge, and engaging in acts of worship that bring us closer to Allah. By doing so, we can attain true greatness in the eyes of our Creator and find contentment and peace in this world and the hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of worldly possessions and guide us on the path of true greatness. Ameen.