Hadith #10022

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Wealth honours its possessor in this world and abases him in front of Allah, the Glorified.

This amazing Hadith highlights the transient nature of worldly wealth and its true value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the meanings of some important words in this Hadith. The word (wealth) "مال" refers to material possessions, riches, and worldly assets. It encompasses both tangible and intangible forms of wealth, such as money, property, and influence. The word (honours) "يُكْرِمُ" signifies that wealth brings temporary respect, status, and admiration in the eyes of people. However, the word (abases) "يُهِينُ" indicates that wealth diminishes the worth and standing of its possessor in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us about the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on the eternal rewards of the hereafter. In Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, Allah says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse emphasizes that worldly wealth and its pursuit can be deceptive, leading people astray from the true purpose of life. It is a means of temporary enjoyment and a source of competition among individuals. However, just as the rainwater nourishes the plants but eventually dries up, worldly possessions also fade away, leaving nothing but debris.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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.

This verse highlights that while wealth and children may bring temporary pleasure and adornment to this worldly life, the true value lies in the enduring good deeds that one performs for the sake of Allah. These good deeds are what truly matter and hold weight in the sight of Allah.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that wealth is a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a means to evaluate how individuals utilize their resources and whether they prioritize worldly gains over spiritual growth and righteousness. While wealth may bring temporary honor and respect in this world, it does not guarantee any status or honor in the sight of Allah. In fact, it can lead to arrogance, greed, and neglect of one's spiritual obligations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true honor and dignity lie in righteousness, piety, and devotion to Allah. The possession of wealth should not be a source of pride or arrogance, but rather a means to fulfill our responsibilities towards others and to seek the pleasure of Allah. It is important to use our wealth in ways that benefit society, such as giving charity, supporting the needy, and investing in acts of worship.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to maintain a balanced perspective on wealth. While it may bring temporary honor and respect in this world, its true value lies in how it is utilized for the sake of Allah and the betterment of society. We should strive to prioritize our spiritual growth and the performance of good deeds, as these are the true measures of honor and dignity in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us to use our wealth wisely and grant us the ability to seek His pleasure above all else.