Hadith #10104

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) warns against acquiring wealth through unlawful means and then spending it in unworthy and inappropriate places. To fully understand the enlightening message behind this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some important words.

The word (yaktasib) "يَكْتَسِبْ" means to earn or acquire. It implies the act of gaining wealth through various means. The word (mālan) "مَالًا" refers to wealth or property. (min ghayri hillihi) "مِنْ غَيْرِ حِلِّهِ" translates to

from sources that are unlawful.

This phrase emphasizes the importance of acquiring wealth through lawful means, in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

The phrase (yasrifhu fi ghayri haqqihi)

يَصْرِفْهُ في غَيْرِ حَقِّهِ

means to spend it in places that are unworthy or inappropriate. This highlights the significance of using wealth in a manner that aligns with the principles of justice and righteousness.

To further comprehend the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188):

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of acquiring wealth through unjust means and warns against using it for sinful purposes. It highlights the importance of upholding justice and righteousness in financial matters. Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against spending wealth extravagantly and wastefully:

And do not be excessive in spending. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.

Reflecting upon these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the sources of their wealth and the manner in which they spend it. Acquiring wealth through unlawful means not only compromises one's integrity but also taints the entire financial transaction. It is imperative for Muslims to earn their wealth through halal means, such as honest work, fair trade, and lawful investments.

Moreover, the Hadith emphasizes the importance of spending wealth in a manner that aligns with the principles of justice and righteousness. Muslims are encouraged to use their wealth for noble purposes, such as providing for their families, supporting the needy, contributing to charitable causes, and investing in ventures that promote the well-being of society. By doing so, they ensure that their wealth is utilized in a manner that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and beneficial to humanity.

The consequences of disregarding this Hadith can be detrimental both in this world and the hereafter. Acquiring wealth through unlawful means not only leads to material loss and financial instability but also tarnishes one's reputation and spiritual well-being. Similarly, spending wealth in unworthy and inappropriate places can lead to wastefulness, extravagance, and the neglect of more deserving causes. Such actions not only diminish the blessings of wealth but also distance individuals from the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to acquire wealth through lawful means and spend it in a manner that aligns with the principles of justice and righteousness. By adhering to these principles, Muslims can ensure that their financial transactions are blessed, their wealth is purified, and their actions are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to earn and spend our wealth in a manner that is pleasing to Him and beneficial to humanity.