Hadith #4385

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مِنْ هَنيءِ النِّعَمِ سَعَةُ الأرْزاقِ۔

This can be translated as,

One of the most pleasant blessings is abundant sustenance.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. (hani') "هَنيءِ" refers to something that brings joy, pleasure, or delight. It signifies a state of contentment and satisfaction. (ni'am) "النِّعَمِ" refers to blessings or favors bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). And (sa'atul-arzaq) "سَعَةُ الأرْزاقِ" means abundant sustenance or provision.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of being grateful for the blessings He has bestowed upon us. He says in Surah Ibrahim (14:34),

And He gave you from all you asked of Him. And if you should count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, mankind is [generally] most unjust and ungrateful.

Abundant sustenance is indeed a great blessing from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses not only material wealth but also encompasses the provision of knowledge, health, and spiritual well-being. It is a blessing that brings comfort and ease to our lives.

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse reminds us that the test of scarcity can be a means of purification and a test of our patience. On the other hand, the abundance of sustenance is a test of gratitude and responsibility.

When we are blessed with abundant sustenance, it is important to remember that it is a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). In Surah Al-Anfal (8:28), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

We should utilize our wealth and resources in a manner that pleases Allah, by helping those in need, supporting charitable causes, and fulfilling our obligations towards our families and communities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of abundant sustenance as one of the most pleasant blessings. It brings comfort and ease to our lives, allowing us to fulfill our needs and desires. However, it is important to strike a balance and not become attached to worldly possessions. In Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

Furthermore, the abundance of sustenance should not lead to arrogance or a sense of superiority over others. In Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of being grateful for the blessings of abundant sustenance. It is a blessing that brings joy and comfort to our lives, but it also comes with responsibilities. We should utilize our wealth and resources in a manner that pleases Allah, and not become attached to worldly possessions. May Allah bless us with abundant sustenance and guide us to use it in the best way possible.