Hadith #2100

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental nature of greed and the importance of placing complete trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to understand its meaning and implications.

The word (hiras) "حِرْصِ" in Arabic refers to greed, covetousness, or an insatiable desire for worldly possessions. It is a characteristic that can consume a person's heart, leading them to constantly crave more and never be satisfied. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) questions how one can find relief from this suffering if they have not truly placed their trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

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

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

This verse reminds us that true relief and contentment can only be found by placing our trust in Allah alone.

Furthermore, in Surah Az-Zumar, verse 38, Allah states, (Quran 39:38)

And if you ask them, 'Who created the heavens and the earth?' they will surely say, 'Allah.' Say, 'Then have you considered what you invoke besides Allah? If Allah intended me harm, are they removers of His harm; or if He intended me mercy, are they withholders of His mercy?' Say, 'Sufficient for me is Allah; upon Him [alone] rely the [wise] reliers'

This verse highlights the futility of relying on anything or anyone other than Allah, as He alone has control over our affairs.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) question in the Hadith challenges us to reflect on the consequences of greed and the lack of trust in Allah. When a person is consumed by greed, they are constantly chasing after material possessions and worldly desires, never finding true contentment. This insatiable desire can lead to a multitude of negative consequences, such as neglecting one's spiritual well-being, harming others in the pursuit of wealth, and losing sight of the ultimate purpose of life.

On the other hand, when a person places their complete trust in Allah, they find solace and relief from the burdens of greed. Trusting in Allah means recognizing that He is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and that everything we have is from Him. It means being content with what Allah has blessed us with and being grateful for His countless blessings. Trusting in Allah also entails seeking His guidance and relying on Him to fulfill our needs, both in this world and the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound question serves as a reminder for Muslims to examine their own hearts and evaluate their level of trust in Allah. Are we constantly chasing after worldly possessions, never finding true satisfaction? Or do we place our complete trust in Allah, finding contentment and peace in His infinite wisdom and mercy?

By reflecting on this Hadith and pondering over the Quranic verses that emphasize trust in Allah, Muslims can strive to overcome the suffering of greed and find true relief in the tranquility of faith. May Allah guide us all to trust in Him wholeheartedly and grant us relief from the burdens of greed.