Hadith #3251

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

مَنْ كَرُمَ خُلْقُهُ اِتَّسَعَ رِزْقُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose character is noble, his sustenance is increased.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the connection between one's character and their provision from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (karuma) "كَرُمَ" is derived from the root word (karama) "كَرَمَ", which means to be generous, honorable, or noble. It refers to the excellence and virtuousness of a person's character. The word (khuluquhu) "خُلْقُهُ" refers to one's disposition, manners, and behavior. It encompasses the way a person interacts with others, their ethics, and their moral conduct. Lastly, the word (ittasa'a) "اِتَّسَعَ" means to expand, enlarge, or increase. It signifies the expansion of sustenance or provision.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good character in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, Allah says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse highlights the connection between seeking the Hereafter and doing good in this world. It implies that those who possess good character and engage in righteous deeds will be blessed with sustenance from Allah.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 37, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.

This verse emphasizes that it is not the material offerings that are valued by Allah, but rather the sincerity and righteousness of a person's heart. It is the noble character and piety that elevate one's status in the sight of Allah, which in turn leads to an increase in sustenance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the divine principle that Allah rewards those who possess noble character with an increase in sustenance. This increase can manifest in various forms, such as financial wealth, blessings in relationships, or success in endeavors. When a person's character is adorned with virtues like honesty, kindness, patience, and generosity, they attract the mercy and blessings of Allah.

For example, a person with a noble character is more likely to be trusted by others, which can lead to opportunities for financial growth and success. Their honesty and integrity can attract business partners and customers, resulting in an expansion of their wealth. Similarly, a person with a kind and compassionate nature is more likely to have harmonious relationships, which can bring emotional and psychological well-being. Their positive interactions with others create a ripple effect of goodness, leading to an increase in blessings from Allah.

Conversely, a person with a corrupt or immoral character may find their sustenance limited or restricted. Their dishonesty, greed, or ill-treatment of others can lead to strained relationships, loss of trust, and financial setbacks. Allah warns against corruption in the land and encourages us to strive for righteousness and good character.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the profound connection between noble character and increased sustenance. It reminds us that our actions and behavior have a direct impact on the blessings we receive from Allah. By cultivating virtuous qualities and embodying the teachings of Islam, we can attract the mercy and provisions of Allah. Let us strive to improve our character and seek the pleasure of Allah, knowing that our sustenance is intricately linked to our moral conduct. May Allah grant us the ability to emulate the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and bless us with abundant provisions in this world and the Hereafter.