Look Towards Those with Fewer Blessings

Written by: Sheikh Abdul Salam bin Muhammad (may Allah protect him)

Narrated by Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

"Look at those who are below you (in worldly matters) and do not look at those who are above you, as this will make you less likely to belittle the blessings of Allah upon you."

[Agreed upon: Sahih Bukhari 6490, Sahih Muslim: Book of Zuhd 9, and Bulugh al-Maram 1237]

Explanation of Terms:​

  • Asfal (أسفل): The word “Asfal” can be read with both raf' (nominative) and nasb (accusative). The nominative is used because it acts as a predicate of "Huwa" (he is), and the accusative because it is implied as a condition for the subject.
  • An la tazdaroo (أن لا تزدروا): This is from the form of iftiaal, derived from the root "zari" which means to belittle or to show disdain. Originally, it was "taztariyoo", but when the letter taa comes after zaa, it changes to daal.

Benefits of This Hadith:​

  1. Avoiding Envy and Discontent: If a person constantly looks at those who have been given more worldly blessings, it may lead to dissatisfaction or even envy towards others, and ingratitude towards the Creator. Both envy and discontent are dangerous to one's spiritual well-being. The hadith provides a remedy for this: looking at those who have been given fewer worldly blessings fosters gratitude, contentment, and compassion for others.
  2. Appreciation of Health and Wealth: The hadith encourages people to consider those who are less fortunate in worldly matters. If someone is healthy, they should look at those who are sick and appreciate the health Allah has granted them. If one is unwell, they should look at those in worse conditions, like those who are blind, deaf, or suffering from severe diseases. Similarly, if one faces financial hardship, they should remember those who are in even more dire situations, crushed by poverty or debt. In reflecting upon the misfortunes of others, one gains the blessings of gratitude, patience, and contentment.
  3. Aspire in Matters of Religion: While the hadith advises looking at those who have less in worldly matters, it also encourages one to look at those who are ahead in religious matters. Allah says in the Qur'an:
"And in that, let the competitors compete."

[Surah Al-Mutaffifin: 83:26]

And He also says:

"So race to [all that is] good."

[Surah Al-Ma'idah: 5:48]

By observing those who excel in righteousness, one is reminded of their own shortcomings, leading to increased humility, repentance, and a desire to strive for higher spiritual goals.

Conclusion:​

By looking at those with fewer worldly blessings, a person will become more grateful for what they have, leading to a heart filled with contentment and satisfaction. Conversely, by observing those who are more advanced in matters of faith and good deeds, one will be motivated to improve their own spiritual condition, striving for the higher ranks of the righteous. This dual approach fosters gratitude for Allah’s blessings and a continuous pursuit of spiritual excellence.
 
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