Hadith #2223

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

When jealousy between the people rains, corruption grows.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and its detrimental impact on society. To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word (tahasud) "تَحَاسُدُ" refers to jealousy or envy. It is a negative emotion that arises when one desires what another person possesses, whether it be material possessions, status, or qualities. Jealousy can lead to feelings of resentment, bitterness, and even hostility towards the person who is the object of envy.

The word (tafasud) "تَفَاسُدُ" means corruption or mischief. It refers to the deterioration of moral values, the breakdown of societal norms, and the spread of evil and wrongdoing. Corruption can manifest in various forms, such as dishonesty, injustice, oppression, and immorality.

To further understand the implications of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the destructive consequences of jealousy and its connection to corruption in several verses.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (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 emphasizes the importance of contentment and gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Jealousy arises when we fail to appreciate the unique blessings and provisions that Allah has bestowed upon each individual. When we are ungrateful and desire what others have, it leads to discontentment and a breeding ground for corruption.

In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 57:20)

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 - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and the futility of competing with one another in accumulating wealth and material gains. Jealousy arises when we become obsessed with worldly possessions and vie with others for their acquisition. This obsession leads to corruption as people resort to unethical means to fulfill their desires, such as fraud, exploitation, and oppression.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to guard against jealousy and its destructive consequences. Jealousy not only harms individuals by causing them to harbor negative emotions, but it also has far-reaching societal implications. When jealousy permeates a community, it fosters an environment of mistrust, animosity, and division. This, in turn, paves the way for corruption to thrive, leading to the erosion of moral values and the deterioration of society as a whole.

As Muslims, we are called upon to cultivate contentment, gratitude, and a spirit of cooperation. We should celebrate the blessings and successes of others, rather than allowing jealousy to poison our hearts. By doing so, we can contribute to the betterment of society and strive for a harmonious and righteous community.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive effects of jealousy and guide us towards a path of righteousness and unity. May we strive to emulate the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), particularly his profound knowledge and wisdom, in order to build a just and virtuous society.