Hazrat Ali (R.A.) holds a unique place in Islamic history. He was not only a symbol of justice and fairness but also a beacon of wisdom whose teachings continue to guide people today. In particular, Faqr is not about financial hardship but rather signifies detachment from worldly desires and complete reliance on Allah. It a state of spiritual richness that leads to true wealth i.e. contentment, wisdom, and closeness to the Divine.
Contentment: An Eternal Wealth
Hazrat Ali (R.A.) said: Contentment is a wealth that never diminishes.
Explanation:
A person’s prosperity does not depend solely on material wealth but on the peace of the inward. Those who always desire more can never attain true happiness, regardless of their wealth. However, those who remain grateful for Allah’s blessings will always feel rich and content.
Lesson: Instead of chasing material possessions, one should embrace inner peace and gratitude, as these are the real sources of happiness.
Allah’s Will and Inner Peace
Hazrat Ali (R.A.) said: “Resignation to the will of Allah is the cure for the diseases of the inward.”
Explanation:
Worldly desires, envy, and greed create unrest in a person’s life. According to Hazrat Ali (R.A.), true peace lies in accepting Allah’s will. When a person acknowledges that everything happens according to Allah’s plan, their inward become free from unnecessary worries and desires.
Lesson: We should trust in Allah’s decisions and accept life’s ups and downs with patience and faith.
The Disease of the Inward is more Dangerous than Physical Disease
Hazrat Ali (R.A.) said: “The disease of the inward is worse than the disease of the body.”
Explanation:
Physical illnesses are temporary and can often be cured with medicine, but spiritual diseases such as arrogance, jealousy, and love for wealth destroy the inward. Such ailments not only harm a person in this life but also in the hereafter.
Lesson: Just as we take care of our physical health, we must also purify our inwards by avoiding excessive love for material possessions and cultivating humility, patience, and generosity.
A Prayer for True Wealth
Hazrat Ali (R.A.) prayed: “O Allah, make me rich through Faqr.”
Explanation:
This prayer highlights that true richness is not in material wealth but in a heart that is free from the love of worldly possessions. A person who is not dependent on wealth experiences true freedom and contentment.
Lesson: We should seek spiritual wealth, knowledge, wisdom, patience, and faith rather than materialistic wealth, as these qualities bring true success.
Conclusion: The True Meaning of Faqar
Hazrat Ali (R.A.)’s teachings make it clear that Faqr is not financial poverty but a state of spiritual fulfillment, where a person is free from worldly greed and contented with Allah’s will. He emphasized contentment, patience, and detachment from worldly wealth as the real sources of success. His wisdom continues to inspire us to prioritize eternal success over temporary worldly gains.
Are we ready to embrace the true meaning of Faqr and lead our lives according to Allah’s will?
