Hadith #8220

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his progeny, and his companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns Muslims to seek refuge in Allah from the intoxication of riches. The word (ista'ithu) "اِسْتَعْيذُوا" means to seek refuge or protection, while (billahi) "بِاللّهِ" means with Allah. The phrase (sakrat al-ghina) "سَكْرَةِ الغِنى" refers to the intoxication or delusion caused by wealth. The word (sakrat) "سَكْرَةً" is derived from (sakara) "سَكَرَ", which means to be intoxicated or overwhelmed.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns Muslims about the intoxicating effects of wealth. Just as alcohol intoxicates a person and impairs their judgment, the abundance of wealth can also lead to a state of intoxication where one becomes heedless of their responsibilities and loses sight of their purpose in life. This state of intoxication caused by wealth can be long-lasting and difficult to recover from, as mentioned in the Hadith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Taghabun (64:15), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the allure of worldly possessions and the distractions they can create:

Your wealth and your children are but a trial, and Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that our wealth and children are a test from Allah, and we should not allow them to distract us from our ultimate goal of seeking His pleasure. The intoxication of riches can blind us to the true purpose of our existence and lead us astray from the path of righteousness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the love of worldly possessions:

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...

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the distractions they bring. The pursuit of wealth and material possessions can consume us, leading to a state of intoxication where we become oblivious to the true purpose of our existence.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the need to seek refuge in Allah from the intoxication of riches. By seeking refuge in Allah, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and recognize that true contentment and fulfillment can only be found in His remembrance and obedience. Seeking refuge in Allah helps us maintain a balanced perspective on wealth and prevents us from becoming intoxicated by its allure.

The consequences of succumbing to the intoxication of riches are manifold. It can lead to arrogance, greed, and a neglect of our duties towards others. We may become engrossed in accumulating wealth, neglecting the rights of the poor and needy. Our hearts may become hardened, and we may lose sight of the transient nature of worldly possessions.

On the other hand, seeking refuge in Allah from the intoxication of riches brings numerous benefits. It helps us maintain a humble and grateful attitude towards the blessings bestowed upon us. It reminds us to use our wealth in a responsible and ethical manner, fulfilling our obligations towards our families, communities, and society at large. Seeking refuge in Allah also protects us from the negative consequences of wealth, such as arrogance and attachment to material possessions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to seek refuge in Allah from the intoxication of riches. It warns against the dangers of becoming consumed by worldly possessions and losing sight of our true purpose in life. By seeking refuge in Allah, we can maintain a balanced perspective on wealth, fulfill our responsibilities, and strive for spiritual growth and contentment. May Allah protect us from the intoxication of riches and guide us on the path of righteousness.