Hadith #2221

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الحسد مرض لايؤسي" which translates to

Jealousy is an ailment that cannot be cured.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and its inability to be remedied.

Let us delve deeper into the key words of this Hadith. (al-hasad) "الحسد" refers to jealousy, which is the feeling of discontent or resentment towards someone else's blessings, success, or possessions. It is a negative emotion that stems from a sense of inadequacy or a desire to possess what others have. (marad) "مرض" means ailment or disease, indicating that jealousy is a spiritual sickness that afflicts the heart and soul of an individual. (la yu'si) "لا يؤسي" means cannot be cured or healed, emphasizing the chronic and incurable nature of jealousy.

The Quran provides us with guidance and insights that support the understanding of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the destructive consequences of jealousy:

(Quran 27:15-19)

And We had certainly given to David and Solomon knowledge, and they said, 'Praise [is due] to Allah, who has favored us over many of His believing servants.' And Solomon inherited David. He said, 'O people, we have been taught the language of birds, and we have been given from all things. Indeed, this is evident bounty.' And gathered for Solomon were his soldiers of the jinn and men and birds, and they were [marching] in rows. Until, when they came upon the valley of the ants, an ant said, 'O ants, enter your dwellings that you not be crushed by Solomon and his soldiers while they perceive not.' So [Solomon] smiled, amused at her speech, and said, 'My Lord, enable me to be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents and to do righteousness of which You approve. And admit me by Your mercy into [the ranks of] Your righteous servants.'

In this ayah, we witness the wisdom and knowledge granted to Prophet Solomon (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) by Allah. Instead of feeling jealous or envious of the unique abilities bestowed upon Solomon, the ants in the valley recognize the importance of gratitude and contentment. This serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to avoid the destructive path of jealousy and instead focus on expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of jealousy is found in Surah Al-Falaq:

(Quran 113:5)

And from the evil of an envier when he envies.

This verse highlights the evil nature of envy and the harm it can cause. Jealousy not only harms the one who harbors it but also negatively affects relationships and communities. It breeds animosity, resentment, and ill-will, leading to a toxic environment where trust and unity are compromised.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the destructive nature of jealousy. It is a disease that eats away at the heart, causing discontentment, bitterness, and a lack of appreciation for one's own blessings. Jealousy blinds us from recognizing and valuing our own unique gifts and talents, as we become consumed with comparing ourselves to others.

To overcome jealousy, Muslims are encouraged to cultivate gratitude, contentment, and self-reflection. By focusing on our own personal growth, acknowledging our blessings, and seeking to improve ourselves, we can break free from the shackles of jealousy. Additionally, seeking refuge in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and supplicating for protection against envy can help safeguard our hearts from this destructive emotion.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to recognize the harmful effects of jealousy. It is a spiritual ailment that cannot be easily cured, and therefore, it is crucial for us to actively work towards cultivating gratitude, contentment, and self-improvement. By doing so, we can protect our hearts from the destructive nature of jealousy and strive towards a more harmonious and fulfilling life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the evils of envy.