Hadith #5979

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "إذا أطْعَمْتَ فَاَشْبِعْ۔" This can be translated as,

When you feed [someone] then satiate him.

In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of not just providing food to someone, but ensuring that they are fully satisfied and their hunger is completely relieved.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the Quranic verses that shed light on the concept of feeding others and the virtues associated with it.

In Surah Al-Insan (Chapter 76), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the righteous believers who feed others for the sake of Allah:

(Quran 76:8-9)

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse highlights the selflessness and sincerity of those who provide food to others. They do not seek any worldly gain or appreciation but solely aim to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is in this context that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of not just giving food, but ensuring that the person's hunger is fully satisfied.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Balad (Chapter 90), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) mentions the qualities of the righteous believers:

(Quran 90:14-16)

Or feeding on a day of severe hunger, an orphan of near relationship, or a needy person in misery.

This verse highlights the virtue of feeding others during times of hardship and hunger. It emphasizes the importance of providing sustenance to those who are in need, especially orphans and the needy. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith aligns with this Quranic teaching, as it encourages Muslims to not only provide food but to ensure that the person's hunger is completely relieved.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasis on satiating the person being fed reflects his profound understanding and compassion. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to go beyond the basic act of feeding and to consider the well-being and satisfaction of those in need. By doing so, we demonstrate true empathy and fulfill the rights of our fellow human beings.

This Hadith also teaches us the importance of generosity and selflessness. It encourages us to give without expecting anything in return, seeking only the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we feed someone and ensure their complete satisfaction, we not only fulfill their physical needs but also uplift their spirits and bring joy to their hearts.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the blessings and rewards associated with feeding others. In Surah Al-Haj (Chapter 22), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

(Quran 76:8-10)

They give food, despite their love for it, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude. Indeed, We fear from our Lord a Day austere and distressful.'

This verse highlights the fear and consciousness of the Day of Judgment that motivates the believers to feed others. It reminds us that our acts of kindness and generosity will be rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

When you feed [someone] then satiate him

emphasizes the importance of not just providing food, but ensuring that the person's hunger is completely relieved. This Hadith aligns with the Quranic teachings that encourage selflessness, generosity, and empathy towards those in need. It reminds us of the virtues associated with feeding others and the rewards that await us in the Hereafter. May we all strive to embody the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and fulfill the rights of our fellow human beings.