Hadith #1793

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes three important principles: generosity, fulfilling promises, and loyalty. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be generous with what is available, which implies being charitable and giving to others from what we possess. This concept of generosity is beautifully highlighted in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

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 that when we are generous with our wealth and resources, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) multiplies our rewards manifold. It is a reminder for us to be selfless and share what we have with those in need, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will bless us abundantly in return.

Secondly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to fulfill our promises. This means that we should be true to our word and honor the commitments we make. The importance of fulfilling promises is emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Isra, verse 34, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

This verse reminds us that fulfilling our commitments is a matter of accountability before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we honor our promises, we demonstrate integrity and trustworthiness, qualities that are highly valued in Islam. It is essential for us to uphold our word, whether it is a promise made to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) or to our fellow human beings.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be loyal with the trusts that have been entrusted to us. This encompasses fulfilling our responsibilities and obligations faithfully. The Quran emphasizes the importance of trustworthiness in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 1, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts. Lawful for you are the animals of grazing livestock except for that which is recited to you [in this Qur'an] - hunting not being permitted while you are in the state of ihram. Indeed, Allah ordains what He intends.

This verse highlights the significance of fulfilling our contracts and obligations. Whether it is a trust placed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) or by our fellow human beings, it is our duty to be loyal and fulfill our responsibilities with utmost sincerity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a comprehensive guide for Muslims, reminding us of the importance of generosity, fulfilling promises, and loyalty. By practicing these principles, we not only uphold the teachings of Islam but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these virtues and follow the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).