Hadith #5683

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of spending in charity and the significance of earning a livelihood through lawful means. Let us delve into the exegesis of this enlightening saying in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (spending) "إنفاق", (you earn) "اكتسبتم", and (you amass) "اكتساب". The word "إنفاق" refers to the act of spending or giving in charity. It encompasses the concept of selflessness and generosity, where one willingly gives from their wealth to benefit others. The word "اكتسبتم" means "you earn" and highlights the importance of engaging in lawful means of livelihood. It emphasizes the significance of working hard and earning a living through legitimate means. On the other hand, the word "اكتساب" refers to amassing or accumulating wealth, which implies hoarding and excessive accumulation of material possessions.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of spending in charity and the consequences of hoarding wealth. In Surah Al-Hashr, verse 9, Allah says, (Quran 59:9)

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the selflessness and generosity of the Ansar (the residents of Madinah) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Makkah). Despite their own needs and hardships, the Ansar preferred the well-being of others over their own. This exemplifies the spirit of spending in charity and the importance of prioritizing the needs of others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 267, Allah says, (Quran 2:267)

O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth. And do not aim toward the defective therefrom, spending [from that] while you would not take it [yourself] except with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of spending from the good and lawful earnings. It warns against spending from that which is defective or impure, as it reflects a lack of sincerity and righteousness. Allah reminds us that He is free of need and worthy of all praise, and it is our duty to spend in a manner that pleases Him.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims that they are more in need of spending in charity than accumulating excessive wealth. It encourages us to prioritize the act of giving and to be mindful of the source of our earnings. By engaging in lawful means of livelihood and spending in charity, we not only fulfill our obligations towards others but also purify our souls and attain spiritual growth.

This Hadith also highlights the negative consequences of hoarding wealth and amassing material possessions. The Quran warns against the love of wealth and the attachment to worldly possessions. In Surah Al-Takathur, Allah says, (Quran 102:1-8)

Competition in [worldly] increase diverts you. Until you visit the graveyards. No! You are going to know. Then no! You are going to know. No! If you only knew with knowledge of certainty... You will surely see the Hellfire. Then you will surely see it with the eye of certainty. Then you will surely be asked that Day about pleasure.

These verses remind us that the pursuit of worldly wealth and possessions can distract us from our ultimate purpose in life. The accumulation of wealth without a sincere intention to benefit others can lead to spiritual blindness and a neglect of our responsibilities towards the less fortunate. On the Day of Judgment, we will be held accountable for how we used the blessings bestowed upon us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize spending in charity and to earn a livelihood through lawful means. It highlights the importance of selflessness, generosity, and the consequences of hoarding wealth. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt, we can strive to embody the spirit of giving and fulfill our obligations towards others, ultimately seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to act upon these teachings and purify our hearts through sincere acts of charity.