Question:
Is this a Hadith?
People still honour you as long as you do not take what is in their hands, and if you do that they will ridicule you
Answer:
I have not come across this as a Hadith.
Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) has recorded a similar narration as the statement of Hasan al Basri (rahimahullah).
Hasan al Basri (rahimahullah) said: “You will continue to remain honourable in the sight of people and they will continue to honour you so long as you do not take/ask of their possessions. Once you do that, they will disdain you, dislike your speech and despise you.”
(Kitabuz Zuhd of Imam Ahmad: 1511. Also see: Hilyatul Awliya, vol. 3 pg. 20)
The narration is suitable to quote as the statement of Hasan al Basri (rahimahullah).
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar