Hadith #4394

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,

Sustenance is not acquired by greed or by being sought after.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of relying on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for sustenance, rather than engaging in excessive greed or relentless pursuit of worldly possessions.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (arzāq) "أرزاق" refers to sustenance or provisions that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bestows upon His creation. It encompasses not only material wealth, but also encompasses spiritual, emotional, and intellectual nourishment. The word (tunāl) "تُنالُ" means to acquire or attain, indicating that sustenance is not obtained solely through our own efforts or desires.

To further comprehend the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and relying on His divine provisions.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

But seek, with the (wealth) which Allah has bestowed on thee, the Home of the Hereafter, nor forget thy portion in this world: but do thou good, as Allah has been good to thee, and seek not (occasions for) mischief in the land: for Allah loves not those who do mischief.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking the Hereafter while not neglecting our responsibilities in this world. It reminds us to use the provisions granted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for righteous actions and to avoid causing harm or engaging in mischief.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to adopt a balanced approach towards sustenance. It cautions against excessive greed and the relentless pursuit of worldly possessions, as these attitudes can lead to spiritual and moral degradation. Instead, we are encouraged to place our trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek sustenance through lawful means, while prioritizing our spiritual growth and the well-being of others.

By refraining from excessive greed and seeking sustenance with a balanced mindset, we can experience the blessings and contentment that come from relying on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone. This Hadith reminds us that true sustenance lies not in material possessions, but in the contentment of the heart and the fulfillment of our spiritual needs.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of relying on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for sustenance and not succumbing to excessive greed or relentless pursuit of worldly possessions. It reminds us to seek a balanced approach, utilizing the provisions granted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for righteous actions and the betterment of ourselves and society. May we all strive to embody the teachings of this Hadith and find true sustenance in the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).