Hadith #8806

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "إذا حُرِمْتَ فَاقْنَعْ۔" This can be translated into English as:

When you are deprived, then be content [with what you have].

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds great wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (hurimta) "حُرِمْتَ" comes from the root word (harama) "حَرَمَ", which means to be deprived or prohibited from something. It signifies a state of being denied or restricted from acquiring or attaining something that one desires or wishes for.

The word (faqna') "فَاقْنَعْ" is derived from the root word (qana'a) "قَنَعَ", which means to be content, satisfied, or to restrain oneself from seeking more. It implies finding contentment and peace within oneself, even in the face of deprivation or loss.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 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 sometimes what we desire may not be beneficial for us in the long run, and what we are deprived of may actually be for our own good. Therefore, it is essential to trust in Allah's wisdom and be content with His decree.

Another verse that complements the message of this Hadith is found in Surah At-Talaq, verse 2-3:

And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent.

These verses assure us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and He will provide for us in ways that we cannot even imagine. Therefore, we should be content with what we have and trust in His provisions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes the importance of contentment in times of deprivation. It teaches us to find peace and satisfaction within ourselves, rather than constantly seeking external sources of fulfillment. When we are deprived of something we desire, whether it be material possessions, opportunities, or relationships, we should remember that true contentment lies in accepting Allah's decree and being grateful for what we already have.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, and this Hadith reflects his profound understanding of human nature and the importance of inner peace. By practicing contentment, we can free ourselves from the shackles of materialism and worldly desires, and focus on the spiritual growth and connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

When you are deprived, then be content [with what you have]

serves as a reminder for Muslims to find contentment and peace within themselves, even in times of deprivation. It encourages us to trust in Allah's wisdom and provisions, and to be grateful for the blessings we already possess. By practicing contentment, we can attain true inner peace and spiritual growth. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.