Rafed English
site.site_name : Rafed English

Caused by the love of the world, avarice is another type of moral vice, and is defined as having one's eye on the possessions of others. The opposite of this vice is being independent of others and indifferent to what is in their hands. There are numerous traditions in praise of being independent of others and in condemnation of avarice. Here we shall quote two traditions in praise of being self-sufficient, which also condemn avarice. Imam al-Baqir has said:

What an evil creature is he who is led by his avarice. What an evil creature is he whose desire earns him ignominy.

Imam Ali (A) says:

Whomever you are able to do without, you will be able to become his peer. Whomever you are fond of, you will become his captive. Whomever you are generous to, you will be able to become his master.

Adapted from: "Jami' al-Sa'adat" by: "Muhammad Mahdi al-Naraqi"