Hadith #1829

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مِنَ الواجِبِ عَلى ذِي الجاهِ أنْ يَبْذُلَهُ لِطالِبِهِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the obligation of a person who holds a position of authority or possesses a high rank to utilize their power and influence to fulfill the needs of those who seek assistance from them.

Let us delve deeper into the key words of this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The term "ذِي الجاهِ" refers to someone who possesses authority, power, or a high rank. It encompasses individuals who hold positions of leadership, influence, or wealth. The word "يَبْذُلَهُ" conveys the idea of spending or using one's resources, whether they be material, intellectual, or emotional, for the benefit of others. And "طالِبِهِ" refers to the one who seeks assistance or support.

To further elucidate the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of helping those in need and fulfilling the rights of others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177, Allah says,

It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the East or the West, but righteousness is to believe in Allah and the Last Day, and the angels, and the Book, and the Prophets, and to give wealth, however cherished, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask, and for freeing slaves.

This verse highlights the obligation of using one's resources to assist those who are less fortunate.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah states,

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 sustenance and support from Allah, and it can be understood that those who possess authority or high rank should also provide sustenance and support to those who seek it from them.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this teaching throughout his life. He utilized his authority and resources to help those in need, regardless of their social status or background. One notable example is when a beggar approached Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and asked for assistance. Despite the beggar's unkempt appearance, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) treated him with respect and kindness, providing him with food and clothing. This act of generosity and compassion reflects the essence of the Hadith, as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) used his position of authority to fulfill the needs of the one who sought his help.

The consequences of adhering to this Hadith are far-reaching. When those in positions of authority fulfill their obligation to assist those in need, it fosters a sense of justice, compassion, and unity within society. It creates an environment where individuals feel supported and cared for, leading to a more harmonious and equitable community. Furthermore, it strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims, as it encourages the sharing of resources and the upliftment of the less fortunate.

As Muslims, we should reflect upon this Hadith and strive to embody its teachings in our own lives. Whether we hold positions of authority or not, we can all contribute to the betterment of society by using our resources to assist those in need. By doing so, we follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and fulfill our duty as Muslims to support and uplift one another.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to fulfill our obligations towards those who seek our assistance, and may He bless us with the wisdom and compassion to follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).