Hadith #10706

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the state of a person who may appear to have abundance in material possessions, but is actually living in a state of constraint and difficulty. The Imam describes this person as one whose desires are excessive, whose ambitions are high, and whose provisions are plentiful, yet their support is lacking.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (shahwah) "شَهْوَةُ" refers to desires or cravings, specifically those that are excessive and uncontrolled. It encompasses both physical and emotional desires, such as the desire for wealth, power, fame, or indulgence in worldly pleasures. The word (himmat) "هِمَّةُ" denotes ambition, determination, and the drive to achieve goals. It signifies a person's strong will and relentless pursuit of their desires. (ma'unah) "مَؤُنَةُ" refers to provisions or resources, which can include material wealth, possessions, and opportunities. Lastly, (ma'unah) "مَعُونَةُ" refers to support or assistance, which can come in various forms such as help from others, divine assistance, or personal capabilities.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah At-Takathur (102:1-2) about the distractions of worldly desires and ambitions, saying:

The mutual rivalry for piling up of worldly things diverts you, until you visit the graves.

This verse reminds us that excessive attachment to material possessions and the pursuit of worldly ambitions can lead us astray from the true purpose of our existence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us:

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 emphasizes the importance of seeking support and assistance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our endeavors. It reminds us that true success lies in relying on Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) support and seeking His guidance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their desires, ambitions, and provisions. It cautions against excessive attachment to worldly possessions and the relentless pursuit of material gains. While it is natural to have desires and ambitions, it is crucial to strike a balance and ensure that our pursuits are aligned with the teachings of Islam.

If a person's desires are excessive and uncontrolled, they will constantly crave more, leading to a state of restlessness and dissatisfaction. Their ambitions may drive them to engage in unethical or immoral actions, disregarding the principles of Islam. Despite having abundant provisions, they will feel a sense of constraint and difficulty, as their desires remain insatiable.

On the other hand, a person who aligns their desires and ambitions with the teachings of Islam will find contentment and peace. They will seek provisions within the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and their pursuits will be guided by righteousness and morality. Such individuals will experience true success and fulfillment, as they rely on Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) support and seek His pleasure in all their endeavors.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their desires, ambitions, and provisions. It urges us to strike a balance between our worldly pursuits and our spiritual growth. By aligning our desires and ambitions with the teachings of Islam and seeking Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) support, we can find true contentment and success in this life and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the right path and grant us the wisdom to prioritize our pursuits in accordance with His will.