Hadith #884

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 true friendship and the role of wealth in supporting one another. Let us delve into the exegesis of this beautiful saying in light of the teachings of the Quran.

The word (sadeeqan) "صَديقًا" in the Hadith refers to a friend or companion, someone who is close and supportive. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us not to count as a true friend someone who does not support us with their wealth. Here, wealth refers to material possessions and financial resources that can be utilized to help others in times of need.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the Quranic principle of mutual support and cooperation among Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2):

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse highlights the importance of assisting one another in acts of goodness and righteousness.

Furthermore, the Quran encourages believers to spend their wealth in the way of Allah and for the betterment of society. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that true friendship entails more than just words or emotional support. It encompasses practical assistance, including financial aid, when needed. A genuine friend is one who is willing to share their wealth and resources to alleviate the burdens of others.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of wealth in fulfilling our responsibilities towards others. In Islam, wealth is seen as a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and it is our duty to utilize it for the betterment of society. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:7):

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you.

By supporting others with our wealth, we not only fulfill our obligations but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and unity within the Muslim community. This act of generosity and selflessness fosters a sense of compassion, empathy, and solidarity among believers.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) instruction serves as a reminder for Muslims to evaluate the sincerity and depth of their friendships. It encourages us to seek companions who are not only emotionally supportive but also willing to contribute their wealth for the betterment of others. This Hadith emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who share our values and are committed to the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true friendship is not limited to emotional support but extends to practical assistance, including the sharing of wealth. It aligns with the Quranic teachings of cooperation, spending in the way of Allah, and fulfilling our responsibilities towards others. By embodying the spirit of this Hadith, Muslims can strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and contribute to the well-being of society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to implement these teachings in our lives.