Hadith #2093

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, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the relationship between doubt, lack of trust in Allah, and the negative qualities of greed and avarice. 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 (شَّكِّ) "shakk" in Arabic refers to doubt or uncertainty. It is a state of questioning or hesitating in one's belief or trust. The word (قِلَّةِ) "qillat" means scarcity or lack of something. In this context, it signifies the deficiency or absence of trust in Allah. The word (ثِّقَةِ) "thiqah" refers to trustworthiness or reliability. Thus, the Hadith suggests that greed and avarice find their foundation in doubt and lack of trust in Allah.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of trust and reliance on Him. In Surah Al-Talaq (65:3), Allah says,

And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him.

This verse highlights the immense power and sufficiency of Allah when one places their trust in Him.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:2), Allah reminds us,

Indeed, the believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, their hearts become fearful, and when His verses are recited to them, it increases them in faith, and upon their Lord they rely.

This verse emphasizes the connection between trust in Allah and the increase in faith. When we trust in Allah, our hearts become filled with awe and reverence for Him, and our faith is strengthened.

Now, let us reflect on the consequences of doubt and lack of trust in Allah. When we doubt Allah's ability to provide for us or fulfill our needs, we become susceptible to greed and avarice. Greed is an insatiable desire for wealth, possessions, or power, while avarice is an extreme greed for material gain. These negative qualities stem from a mindset of scarcity and a lack of trust in Allah's abundant provisions.

When we doubt Allah's ability to provide for us, we may resort to unethical means to accumulate wealth or hoard resources, fearing that there won't be enough for us. This mindset contradicts the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the principles of moderation, charity, and contentment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says 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 encourages us to seek sustenance from Allah and trust in His provisions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the detrimental effects of doubt and lack of trust in Allah. By recognizing the negative consequences of greed and avarice, we are reminded to cultivate trust in Allah and rely on Him for our sustenance and needs. Trusting in Allah's infinite wisdom and mercy allows us to overcome greed and avarice, and instead, develop qualities of contentment, gratitude, and generosity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to place their trust in Allah and avoid doubt and uncertainty. By doing so, we can safeguard ourselves from the negative qualities of greed and avarice. Let us strive to strengthen our trust in Allah, seek His provisions through lawful means, and embody the virtues of contentment and generosity. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the strength to overcome our doubts and trust in Him wholeheartedly.