Hadith #9656

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,

Al-mar'u bihimmatihi la biqunyatihi.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of a person's endeavor and effort, rather than solely focusing on their material acquisitions. Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word "mar'u" refers to an individual, a person. It encompasses all human beings, regardless of their social status, wealth, or background. The word "bihimmatihi" is derived from the root word "himma," which means endeavor or effort. It signifies the actions, struggles, and endeavors that a person undertakes in their life. On the other hand, the word "qunyatihi" refers to material acquisitions, possessions, or wealth.

This Hadith highlights the true value of a person lies not in their material possessions, but in their efforts and endeavors. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth, self-improvement, and the pursuit of noble goals, rather than being solely preoccupied with accumulating wealth and worldly possessions.

The Quranic teachings also emphasize the significance of personal effort and endeavor. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 53:39)

And that man can have nothing but what he strives for

This verse clearly indicates that a person's achievements and rewards are directly proportional to their efforts and endeavors. It reminds us that success is not solely determined by material acquisitions, but by the sincerity and dedication we put into our actions.

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

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like the rain, whose vegetation pleases the tillers; then it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers), and (there is) forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers)

This verse reminds us that the material possessions and acquisitions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They hold no true value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). What truly matters is our efforts and endeavors in seeking His pleasure and the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions over material possessions. It encourages us to focus on personal growth, knowledge, and the pursuit of noble goals. It reminds us that our true worth lies in the sincerity and dedication we put into our endeavors, rather than the wealth and possessions we accumulate.

By internalizing this Hadith, Muslims are motivated to strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives. They are encouraged to seek knowledge, engage in acts of worship, and contribute positively to society. This Hadith also serves as a reminder to avoid the pitfalls of materialism, greed, and the pursuit of worldly pleasures. Instead, Muslims are encouraged to prioritize their spiritual and moral development, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) above all else.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that a person's true value lies in their endeavor and effort, rather than their material acquisitions. It aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the importance of personal growth, sincerity, and the pursuit of noble goals. By internalizing this Hadith, Muslims are motivated to prioritize their actions and intentions, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) above all worldly possessions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.