Hadith #63

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 giving, even if it is a small amount. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, advises Muslims not to feel ashamed or hesitant to give, as the act of refusing to give is even smaller in value than the little amount that is being given.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (istah) "استح" in Arabic means to feel ashamed or hesitant. The word (i'ta) "إِعْطَاءِ" means giving or bestowing. The word (al-qaleel) "الْقَلِيلِ" refers to a small or insignificant amount. And finally, the word (al-hirman) "الْحِرْمَانَ" means refusal or deprivation.

This Hadith beautifully aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving and charity. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261:

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

This verse illustrates the immense reward and blessings that come from giving, regardless of the amount. It highlights the concept of multiplication, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) multiplies the reward for those who give sincerely and selflessly. Therefore, even if the amount given is small, it can have a significant impact and be multiplied in the sight of Allah.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Tawbah, verse 103:

Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [ Allah 's blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.

This verse highlights the purification and increase that comes from giving charity. It emphasizes that giving not only benefits the recipient but also purifies the giver's wealth and increases it. It is a means of seeking the blessings and invocations of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and ultimately the blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we can understand that the act of giving, regardless of the amount, is highly valued in Islam. It is a means of purifying our wealth, seeking blessings, and increasing our provisions. Even if we can only give a little, we should not hesitate or feel ashamed, as the refusal to give is of lesser value.

This Hadith also teaches us the importance of overcoming our ego and selfishness when it comes to giving. It encourages us to be generous and selfless, knowing that every act of giving, no matter how small, is significant in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that the act of giving is not solely determined by the quantity, but rather the intention and sincerity behind it.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be generous and selfless in their giving, even if it is a small amount. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of giving and the multiplied rewards that come from it. We should strive to overcome any feelings of hesitation or shame when it comes to giving, as refusing to give is of lesser value. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be generous and selfless in our actions, and may He accept our humble contributions.