Hadith #7057

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he mentions three things that serve as a test for the intellects of people: wealth, authority, and adversity. Let us delve into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first test mentioned is wealth, which refers to material possessions and worldly riches. The Quran repeatedly reminds us of the potential pitfalls and challenges that come with wealth. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:155)

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient

This verse highlights the fact that wealth can be a source of trial and tribulation, as it can lead to arrogance, greed, and a neglect of one's spiritual duties.

The second test mentioned is authority or leadership, which entails having power and influence over others. The Quran provides numerous examples of leaders who were tested with their authority. In Surah Al-Kahf, the story of Dhul-Qarnayn serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with leadership. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 18:84-86)

Indeed, We established him upon the earth, and We gave him to everything a way. So he followed a way until, when he reached the setting of the sun, he found it [as if] setting in a spring of dark mud, and he found near it a people. Allah said, 'O Dhul-Qarnayn, either you punish [them] or else adopt among them [a way of] goodness'

This verse highlights the test of leadership, as Dhul-Qarnayn was given the choice to either punish or guide the people under his authority.

The third test mentioned is adversity or calamity, which refers to hardships and difficulties that one may face in life. The Quran acknowledges the inevitability of adversity and encourages believers to remain patient and steadfast. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:155)

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient

This verse reminds us that adversity is a test of our faith and patience, and it is through such trials that we have the opportunity to grow spiritually.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights these three tests to emphasize the importance of self-reflection and self-control in the face of wealth, authority, and adversity. It is through these tests that the true nature of individuals is revealed. Will they become arrogant and selfish when blessed with wealth? Will they abuse their authority and oppress others? Will they lose faith and become despondent in times of adversity?

By recognizing and reflecting upon these tests, Muslims can strive to cultivate humility, justice, and patience in their lives. They can use their wealth to benefit others, exercise their authority with wisdom and compassion, and face adversity with resilience and trust in Allah's plan. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thoughtful words serve as a reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their actions and intentions in the face of these tests, and to seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate these tests successfully, and may He bless us with the ability to use our wealth, authority, and adversity as means of drawing closer to Him and serving humanity.