Hadith #2435

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who cuts off his usual favours, Allah will cut off his present capabilities.

This Hadith highlights the consequences of severing the ties of kindness and generosity towards others. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ma'hooda) "مَعْهُودَ" in the Hadith refers to the usual or customary favors that one extends to others. It encompasses acts of kindness, generosity, and support that we regularly offer to those around us. These favors can be in the form of financial assistance, emotional support, or any act of goodwill that we consistently provide to others.

The word (ihsaanihi) "إحْسانِهِ" refers to these acts of kindness and favors. It signifies the importance of maintaining a continuous and consistent pattern of benevolence towards others. By doing so, we establish a bond of goodwill and strengthen the fabric of society.

The Hadith warns that if one cuts off these usual favors, Allah will cut off their present capabilities. This implies that when we sever the ties of kindness and generosity, we risk losing the blessings and capabilities that Allah has bestowed upon us. It serves as a reminder that our abilities and resources are gifts from Allah, and we must utilize them in the service of others.

This profound Hadith finds support in the teachings of the Quran. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of spending in the way of Allah and doing good deeds. It encourages us to use our resources and capabilities to benefit others, rather than hoarding them selfishly. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations towards others but also earn the pleasure and love of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's sustenance and blessings. By maintaining a consistent pattern of kindness and generosity, we ensure that our sustenance and capabilities remain intact. Cutting off these usual favors can lead to a loss of blessings and a weakening of our abilities.

The consequences of severing the ties of kindness and generosity are not limited to the material realm. It also affects our spiritual well-being. When we neglect our duty to help and support others, we distance ourselves from the teachings of Islam. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness, charity, and compassion towards others.

In Surah Al-Ma'un (107:1-7), Allah condemns those who neglect their duty towards the needy and the poor. He says,

Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense? For that is the one who drives away the orphan. And does not encourage the feeding of the poor.

This verse serves as a stark reminder that neglecting our duty towards others, especially the less fortunate, is a grave sin. It is incumbent upon us to extend our usual favors and acts of kindness towards those in need, for it is through such actions that we attain closeness to Allah and fulfill our purpose as Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of severing the ties of kindness and generosity. It highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent pattern of benevolence towards others, as cutting off these usual favors can lead to a loss of blessings and capabilities. By reflecting on the teachings of the Quran, we understand that kindness, charity, and compassion are integral to our faith and essential for our spiritual growth. May Allah guide us to be steadfast in our acts of kindness and generosity, and may He grant us the ability to uphold the teachings of Islam in every aspect of our lives.