Hadith #1465

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he warns us about the consequences of being miserly and hasty in seeking wealth. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its profound implications in light of the Quran.

The word (bakheel) "بَخِيل" refers to a miser or a stingy person who is reluctant to spend their wealth, even when it is necessary or when they have the means to do so. The word (muta'ajjil) "مُتَعَجِّل" means someone who is hasty or impatient. (al-faqr) "الفَقْرَ" refers to poverty, while (al-ghina) "الغِنَى" means wealth or richness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) begins by saying (woe to) "وَيْحَ" which expresses a sense of warning and lamentation. He then describes the miser as someone who hastens towards poverty, even though it is something that has already fled from them. This highlights the irony of their actions, as they are eagerly pursuing something that is not beneficial for them. On the other hand, they abandon the wealth that is seeking them, indicating their negligence and lack of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of generosity and the dangers of miserliness. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 63:10)

And spend of that with which We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.'

This verse highlights the regret that a person will feel when they realize the importance of giving in charity, but it is too late for them to do so.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:29)

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse warns against the extremes of miserliness and extravagance, emphasizing the importance of moderation in spending. It reminds us that being excessively stingy or wasteful can lead to financial difficulties and societal criticism.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) words serve as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their attitude towards wealth. The miser who hoards their wealth and refuses to spend it, even when it is necessary or when they have the means to do so, is depriving themselves of the blessings and rewards that come with generosity. They are also neglecting their duty to support those in need and contribute to the betterment of society.

Moreover, the hastiness of the miser in pursuing poverty demonstrates a lack of trust in Allah's provision. The Quran repeatedly assures us that Allah is the ultimate provider and sustainer. In Surah At-Talaq, Allah says, (Quran 65:2-3)

And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out and will provide for him from where he does not expect.

This verse reminds us that true wealth and sustenance come from Allah, and it is our duty to trust in His provisions and be generous with what He has blessed us with.

The consequences of miserliness and hastiness in seeking wealth are not limited to the material realm. They also have spiritual implications. The Quran teaches us that wealth is a test from Allah, and how we use it reflects our character and faith. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 3:92)

You will not attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love. And whatever you spend - indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.

This verse emphasizes the importance of sacrificing our wealth for the sake of Allah and the well-being of others.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their attitude towards wealth. It warns against the dangers of miserliness and hastiness in seeking wealth, highlighting the importance of generosity and trust in Allah's provisions. By reflecting on the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can strive to cultivate a balanced and righteous approach towards wealth, ensuring that we fulfill our obligations towards others and seek the pleasure of Allah. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to use our wealth in a manner that pleases Him.