Hadith #8371

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 and noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

You will never attain that which has been taken away from you so be moderate in your acquisition.

This profound statement emphasizes the importance of moderation and contentment in our pursuit of worldly possessions.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (zūiya) "زُوِيَ" in Arabic refers to something that has been taken away or deprived from someone. It implies that there are certain things in life that may be beyond our control or reach, and no matter how much we strive for them, we will not be able to attain them. This could include material wealth, status, or even certain opportunities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to (ijmil) "أجْمِلْ" in our acquisition, which can be translated as being moderate or balanced. This means that we should not become excessively attached to worldly possessions or indulge in excessive materialistic desires. Instead, we should strive for a balanced approach, acquiring what is necessary and beneficial for our well-being, while avoiding excessive accumulation and greed.

To further understand the wisdom behind this advice, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

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 reminds us to seek Allah's guidance and sustenance in all our endeavors, both in acquiring and letting go of worldly possessions. It emphasizes the importance of seeking moderation and balance in our actions, as well as relying on Allah's support and provision.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse reminds us that while we should strive for the rewards of the Hereafter, we should not neglect our responsibilities and duties in this world. We are encouraged to seek a balance between our spiritual and worldly pursuits, while always maintaining integrity and avoiding corruption.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice to be moderate in our acquisition has profound implications for our lives. By practicing moderation, we can avoid the pitfalls of excessive materialism and the negative consequences that come with it. Excessive attachment to worldly possessions can lead to greed, envy, and a loss of focus on our ultimate purpose in life.

Moreover, being moderate in our acquisition allows us to appreciate and be grateful for the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon us. It helps us develop a sense of contentment and satisfaction with what we have, rather than constantly chasing after more.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to adopt a balanced and moderate approach in their pursuit of worldly possessions. It encourages us to be content with what we have, while striving for the rewards of the Hereafter. By practicing moderation, we can lead a more fulfilling and purposeful life, free from the shackles of excessive materialism. May Allah guide us all on the path of moderation and contentment.