Hadith #2236

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.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لاداءَ كَالحَسَدِ۔" which translates to

There is no malady like jealousy.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and its detrimental effects on individuals and society as a whole.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words used. The word (la da'a) "لاداءَ" means "there is no" or

there is nothing like.

It emphasizes the uniqueness and unparalleled nature of the subject being discussed. The word (ka al-hasad) "كَالحَسَدِ" means "like jealousy." Jealousy refers to the feeling of envy or resentment towards someone's possessions, qualities, or achievements.

The Quran provides us with several verses that shed light on the destructive nature of jealousy. In Surah Al-Nisa, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the harmful consequences of jealousy and envy:

(Quran 4:32)

And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of his bounty. Indeed Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing.

This verse reminds us that Allah has distributed His blessings and provisions among His creation according to His wisdom. Jealousy arises when individuals desire what others possess, disregarding the fact that Allah has granted each person their own unique share. Jealousy blinds us to the blessings we have been bestowed with and leads to discontentment and unhappiness.

Another verse in Surah Al-Hadid highlights the destructive consequences of jealousy:

(Quran 57:16)

Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah and what has come down of the truth? And let them not be like those who were given the Scripture before, and a long period passed over them, so their hearts hardened; and many of them are defiantly disobedient.

This verse warns believers against hardening their hearts and becoming envious of others. Jealousy not only damages our spiritual well-being but also hinders our ability to benefit from the guidance and wisdom of the Quran. It is a malady that prevents us from attaining humility and submission to Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of purifying our hearts from the disease of jealousy. Jealousy not only harms our relationships with others but also hampers our own personal growth and spiritual development. It breeds negativity, resentment, and ill-will, leading to a toxic environment within families, communities, and societies.

To overcome jealousy, we must cultivate gratitude and contentment in our hearts. We should focus on our own blessings and strive to improve ourselves rather than being preoccupied with what others possess. By recognizing and appreciating the unique gifts and talents that Allah has bestowed upon us, we can develop a sense of self-worth and fulfillment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims of the destructive nature of jealousy. It urges us to purify our hearts from this malady and strive for gratitude, contentment, and self-improvement. By doing so, we can foster harmonious relationships, promote personal growth, and create a positive and thriving society. May Allah protect us from the disease of jealousy and grant us the strength to overcome it.