Hadith #9138

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Nobleness is [in] preferring the pleasantness of praise over the love of wealth.

This Hadith highlights the virtue of prioritizing the appreciation and recognition of others over the accumulation of material wealth.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it encompasses. The word (karāmu) "كَرَمُ" refers to nobleness or generosity, which is a quality highly esteemed in Islam. (i'thāru) "إيثارُ" means to give preference or to prioritize. (uḏūbah) "عُذُوبَةِ" signifies the pleasantness or sweetness of something. And finally, (thannā') "الثَّناءِ" refers to praise or commendation.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can 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 emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's support and guidance in all aspects of our lives, including our actions and intentions.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 reminds us that worldly possessions and wealth are temporary and fleeting, and that true nobility lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and prioritizing the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to prioritize the pleasantness of praise over the love of wealth. This does not mean that wealth is inherently evil or that we should not strive for financial stability. Rather, it reminds us to place greater value on the recognition and appreciation of others, as this brings about a sense of fulfillment and contentment that surpasses material possessions.

By preferring the pleasantness of praise, we cultivate a mindset of selflessness and generosity. We become more inclined to engage in acts of kindness, charity, and service to others, seeking their satisfaction and happiness. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the importance of caring for others and promoting the well-being of society as a whole.

Furthermore, prioritizing the pleasantness of praise over the love of wealth helps us develop a sense of humility and gratitude. When we seek recognition and appreciation from others, we acknowledge the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and recognize that our abilities and achievements are not solely our own doing. This fosters a sense of humility and gratitude towards Allah, as well as a deeper appreciation for the blessings we have been granted.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of prioritizing the pleasantness of praise over the love of wealth. By doing so, we cultivate a mindset of selflessness, generosity, and gratitude, aligning ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the noble example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny. May Allah guide us to embody these virtues and grant us the ability to prioritize the eternal rewards of the Hereafter over the temporary pleasures of this world.